Facing a surge in gang-related violence and record homicide rates, Costa Rica’s Justice Minister Gerald Campos visited El Salvador’s Cecot mega-prison on April 4, 2025, to explore President Nayib Bukele’s hardline anti-gang strategies. Once Central America’s safest country, Costa Rica now grapples with growing organized crime and drug-related killings.

Campos toured the controversial prison—home to 15,000 inmates, mostly gang members—and expressed interest in adapting aspects of Bukele’s approach, despite international criticism over human rights abuses and harsh prison conditions. He emphasized the need for new prison infrastructure to match the region’s crime levels.

The visit reflects strengthening ties between Costa Rica and El Salvador, though Costa Rica’s more divided political landscape may prevent full adoption of Bukele’s model. Cecot has also become a symbol in U.S. immigration policy, housing deported Venezuelans and serving as a deterrent in messages from American officials.

While Campos sees potential lessons, Costa Rica faces the challenge of balancing security needs with its democratic values amid rising violence.