Abolition of the Army Day in Costa Rica | December 1st, A Legacy of Peace and National Pride

 

Published.: December 1st, 2025
 

Abolition of the Army Day in Costa Rica is one of the most representative celebrations of the national identity, as it reflects the values that have guided the country for more than seven decades. Every December 1st, Costa Rica reaffirms its commitment to a development model centered on peace, social well-being, and institutional strengthening. The decision to live without a permanent army not only marked a historic turning point but also established a national philosophy that prioritizes education, health, culture, and citizen participation as essential tools for building a sustainable future. This commemoration invites reflection on the role of citizens in consolidating a democratic and collaborative environment, where dialogue replaces confrontation and public policies seek a balance between economic growth and social justice. More than a symbolic date, this day highlights the country’s pacifist character and long-term vision, based on trust in institutions and society’s ability to resolve differences through civil means. Celebrating the Abolition of the Army means recognizing that true progress is achieved when investments focus on human development and the strengthening of opportunities for all people.

Commemorating the Abolition of the Army represents an opportunity to appreciate the benefits and legacy that this decision has brought to Costa Rica. Without the need to maintain armed forces, the country has directed its efforts toward a state structure that promotes public education, universal healthcare, environmental protection, and equitable access to essential services. This vision has reinforced democratic stability, consolidating the country as an international benchmark in peace, institutional strength, and people-centered development policies. The date also highlights the importance of social dialogue, cross-sector cooperation, and respect for human rights as key pillars for addressing contemporary challenges. In a world where armed conflicts are frequent, Costa Rica demonstrates that it is possible to build security and well-being through a civilist and humanist approach. The Abolition of the Army did not merely dismantle a military structure—it established a model based on peaceful coexistence and the strengthening of social cohesion. Each year, on December 1st, we are reminded that investing in opportunity, knowledge, and collective well-being is the foundation of sustainable development and of a nation that chooses peace as its greatest legacy.

History

  • General context:

    December 1st is a symbolic date for Costa Rica, as it commemorates the historic decision to abolish the army in 1948. This act marked the beginning of a civil development model that prioritizes education, democracy, institutional strength, and peace as fundamental pillars of national life.

  • National significance:

    The celebration reaffirms the country’s commitment to a people-centered development approach, focused on social investment and the strengthening of the rule of law. Year after year, the date highlights Costa Rica’s pacifist vision and its international recognition as a nation without a standing army.

  • Contemporary relevance:

    Beyond its historical value, the abolition of the army remains a symbol of identity, social stability, and the country’s commitment to resolving conflicts through civil means. December 1st is a day to reflect on the social, economic, and cultural benefits that this decision has generated for more than seven decades.

Labor legislation:

  • Official date:

    Monday, December 1st, 2025.

  • Holiday type:

    Non-mandatory paid holiday.

  • Right to enjoy the holiday:

    All workers have the right to enjoy the holiday, regardless of their payment modality. The holiday is not moved to another date.

  • Weekly pay modality (non-commercial):

    Companies that pay weekly under a non-commercial modality must pay only for days actually worked. If the holiday is not worked, it is not paid. If the employee works that day, a simple daily wage applies.

  • Overtime under weekly pay:

    Overtime worked on the holiday must be paid at time and a half, meaning at the ordinary rate.

  • Monthly, bi-weekly, and commercial pay:

    Workplaces that pay monthly, bi-weekly, or weekly in commerce must include the full salary for the period, including December 1st. If the employee works that day, an additional simple day must be paid to complete the double pay required.

  • Overtime in these modalities:

    Overtime worked during the holiday must be paid at triple value (time and a half doubled).

Regulations:

"No worker is required to work on the holiday unless they voluntarily agree to do so."

"Whether the company is national, transnational, or international, it must grant the holiday to collaborators working in Costa Rica."

"Any agreement implying the waiver of holiday enjoyment is absolutely null, according to Article 11 of the Labor Code."

"This holiday is not transferable; it remains fixed on Monday, December 1st."

Source: Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MTSS) – Communiqué CP-MTSS-PRE-052-2025