Costa Rica, often celebrated for its robust social protection (SP) system and sustained economic growth, still faces challenges in addressing the needs of its most vulnerable populations. Among them are the artisanal fishing and mollusk-gathering communities of Puerto Cortés and Golfo Dulce. A recent report titled “Exploring Alternatives for the Economic Inclusion of Low-Income, Artisanal Fisher Communities in Costa Rica” sheds light on the socio-economic struggles of these communities and outlines potential pathways for their inclusion into the broader economy.
Despite Costa Rica’s thriving economy, the benefits have not been evenly distributed, particularly among the country’s low-income, artisanal fishing communities. These communities, largely situated in the South Pacific regions of Puerto Cortés and Golfo Dulce, have seen their livelihoods threatened by environmental restrictions aimed at preserving marine resources and the broader impacts of climate change.
According to the report, the majority of these communities operate at the lower end of the income distribution. Many fisherfolk and mollusk gatherers lack access to basic social protection programs, making them highly vulnerable. Their incomes are not only unstable but also often fall below the minimum wage, leaving them in precarious financial situations. Moreover, the report highlights a significant gender gap, with women in these communities earning less than their male counterparts and shouldering a disproportionate burden of unpaid work.
The report proposes a multifaceted approach to addressing these challenges, emphasizing the need for stronger collaboration between fisheries management and social protection systems. One of the key recommendations is to improve the targeting and profiling mechanisms of existing social protection programs to ensure that they reach the most vulnerable populations, including those in the artisanal fishing sector.
Education and training are also highlighted as critical areas for intervention. Many fisherfolk and mollusk gatherers have low levels of education, which limits their opportunities for alternative employment. Tailoring training programs to the specific needs of these communities, including skills such as customer service, basic English, and digital literacy, could significantly enhance their economic prospects.