Professional Colleges Federation rejects bill to eliminate mandatory membership: 'Professional practice is degraded to a mere commercial activity'

Costa Rica's Federation of Professional Colleges (Fecoprou) has voiced strong opposition to Bill 25.747, a legislative proposal that seeks to abolish mandatory professional membership for the majority of liberal professions. Fecoprou, an umbrella organization representing 33 professional associations, argues that such a change would fundamentally undermine the integrity and standards of professional practice.

The federation contends that eliminating mandatory membership would reduce professional work to a mere "commercial activity." This perspective highlights concerns that the bill could lead to a decline in ethical conduct and professional competence, as the oversight and accountability mechanisms currently provided by professional colleges would be weakened or removed.

The initiative was put forward by ruling party deputy Marta Esquivel. Fecoprou's strong stance suggests a significant debate is likely to ensue over the bill, as professional bodies emphasize the importance of their role in maintaining quality and ethical standards within their respective fields.