Costa Rica has elected a staunchly pro-life president who describes abortion as “nothing other than murder.” Laura Fernández Delgado won a first-round victory on February 1 with 48.3 percent of the vote.
Her victory was hailed by religious leaders, with the Catholic news outlet Zenit stating that the result “not only reshapes the country’s leadership but also signals the enduring influence of faith-informed values in Central American public life.” Fernández was congratulated by the Catholic bishops of Costa Rica as well as the episcopal conference.
“Fernández’s political ascent has been closely watched both domestically and abroad, particularly because of her unapologetically pro-life stance,” Zenit reported. “A former Minister of Planning and chief of staff to outgoing President Rodrigo Chaves, she ran on a platform that combined economic growth, public security, and moral conservatism—an approach that resonated strongly with Costa Rica’s religious and socially traditional voters.”
“If you are in favor of abortion, euthanasia, and believe the family is not important, this is not the place for you,” Fernández stated.
Fernández emphasized her pro-life views throughout the campaign and committed to expanding on the pro-life policies of her predecessor. In October 2025, President Chaves signed a decree emphasizing that abortion is only permissible in instances where the mother’s life is supposedly in danger.
His predecessor, President Carlos Alvarado Quesada, had sought to loosen restrictions in 2019.
Fernández has promised to make pro-life policy a pillar of her presidency. “Protecting the lives of Costa Ricans not yet born represents a duty of the State,” she stated. “Abortion is simply equivalent to a murder.” She supports toughening penalties for abortion-related offenses, including increasing sentencing for those involved. Under the proposal, those who commit abortions without a woman’s consent could get as much as 12 years in prison.
“The glory will always be His!” she posted on social media after her victory.
My heart and that of my family will always be grateful for the wonderful opportunity to be part of a democratic process like this, and for the gift of living in this beautiful country. Thank you all as well for your work, your effort, and your support. God continues to be God, continues to be faithful, and continues to be supernatural! Long live Costa Rica! And to God always be the glory, the praise, and the power!
Fernández reiterated the sentiment in her victory speech, giving “infinite thanks to God for his democratic day,” emphasizing her commitment to life and family and stating: “Thank God for this election day … Today, surrendered before You, I place Costa Rica into Your hands.”
