Costa Rican inmates to perform public maintenance tasks

Costa Rica's Ministry of Justice has announced a new initiative that will see individuals deprived of liberty contribute to public maintenance tasks. The program, aimed at fostering rehabilitation and community contribution, officially commenced with cleaning efforts in the vicinity of Juan Santamaría Airport.

This public works program is being introduced as the Costa Rican penitentiary system undergoes significant changes. Recent measures include the confiscation of microwaves within correctional facilities and stricter regulations on the daily amount of food that can be brought in for inmates. These adjustments are part of a broader effort to reform the prison system.

The Ministry of Justice has not provided extensive details on the long-term scope or specific types of maintenance work the inmates will undertake. However, the initial phase focuses on visible improvements in public spaces, starting with the area surrounding the main international airport.