WJC at UNHRC │Costa Rica's Jewish Community President Urges Government to Adopt IHRA Definition

During the 2025 United Nations Human Rights Council, President of the Costa Rican Jewish Community Gilbert Meltzer spoke on behalf of the World Jewish Congress urging the Costa Rican government to adopt the IHRA definition of antisemitism or the U.S. Department of State's Global Guidelines for Countering Antisemitism as a response to the growing sentiment within the Jewish community that not enough is done to combat antisemitism.

Read the full statement below:

My name is Gilbert Meltzer, President of the Centro Israelita Sionista, representing the Jewish community of Costa Rica. Our small yet vibrant community, with around 2,500 members, is very active and involved in various aspects of society, including politics, arts, business, academia, and government. 

We have institutions that cater to all areas, such as community centers, sports centers, and community schools, which help us maintain our Jewish identity and engage with national and global realities. Our current situation in Costa Rica is relatively good, and we have maintained a good relationship with the government, working together on mutual interests and receiving support in times of antisemitism, especially after the attacks of October 7. However, more than 75% of our community believes antisemitism has increased, and over 60% feel that authorities haven't done enough to address this perception. 

Therefore, we see a need for Costa Rica to adopt protocols to combat antisemitism, such as the IHRA declaration or the U.S. Department of State's Global Guidelines for Countering Antisemitism. This would serve as an effective tool against antisemitism and provide a legal basis to protect Jewish life and address potential future threats. We appeal for your good offices to suggest to the government of Costa Rica to join this initiative, which is not only a significant step in combating hatred against Jews but also the right path to address other forms of discrimination in our society. 

Costa Rica is a country of peace. We'll be strengthened by this initiative, honoring the words of our national anthem: "Long Live Work and Peace."