Title: La función pública en Costa Rica: una referencia iberoamericana con necesidades de cambio
Abstract: Public administration in Costa Rica has been characterized for decades by a high degree of institutional and democratic strength, and it is a model for many countries in Latin America. The civil service of Costa Rica is highly professional, and this helps to explain the effi cient operation of the country's institutions, as well as the strong economic development and political stability that Costa Rica has enjoyed for a long time. The present paper analyses the legal status of the civil service in Costa Rica, considering its basis on constitutional law, and the diverse statute laws that contribute to its confi guration. The paper discusses the strengths and weaknesses of Costa Rica's civil service and identifies some possible reforms that could contribute to its further improvement.