ABSTRACT
This country report analyzes the various trends in freedom of expression and information in Costa Rica, the state of the main sectors of the media, the dominant patterns of media usage, some self-regulatory practices in the media, and, finally, the professionalization of journalism. Examples of self-regulatory practices are found in written ethics codes, internal mechanisms of self-regulation, audience interactions, specific policies for the separation between advertising and information, and fact-checking initiatives. Although journalism tuition is not mandatory in Costa Rica, journalism education is another important factor for media accountability. In conclusion, however, the topic of media responsibility in Costa Rica is still emerging in the practice of journalism – and it is almost absent from public scrutiny.
