Overpopulation is a constant problem in prisons. (Image for illustrative / Archive CRH purposes)
Legislators have given final approval to a law that grants oversight of prisons to the National Ombudsman. As an independent advocate, the ombudsman will be responsible for monitoring prisons, holding cells, psychiatric hospitals and immigration detention centers. The move is to put Costa Rica in line with the U.N. Convention against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment.
Prison conditions in Costa Rica are frequently denounced for overcrowding and insecurity.