Find Gun Policy Facts

Armed violence prevention, gun control laws and the small arms trade:

Go To ..

Costa Rica — Gun Facts, Figures and the Law

expand all collapse all

StockpilesGun Numbers

Civilian Guns

Compare
Number of Privately Owned Firearms

The estimated total number of guns (both licit and illicit) held by civilians in Costa Rica is 400,0001 2

Compare
Rate of Civilian Firearm Possession per 100 Population

The estimated rate of private gun ownership (both licit and illicit) in Costa Rica is 8.61 2 firearms per 100 people

Compare
Number of Privately Owned Firearms - World Ranking

In a comparison of the number of privately owned guns in 178 countries, Costa Rica ranked at No. 873

Compare
Rate of Privately Owned Firearms per 100 Population - World Ranking

In a comparison of the rate of private gun ownership in 178 countries, Costa Rica ranked at No. 642

Compare
Number of Licensed Firearm Owners

The number of licensed gun owners in Costa Rica is reported to be 152,9234

Compare
Rate of Licensed Firearm Owners per 100 Population

The rate of licensed firearm owners per 100 people in Costa Rica is 4.025

Compare
Number of Registered Firearms

The number of registered guns in Costa Rica is reported to be 149,4233

Compare
Rate of Registered Firearms per 100 Population

The rate of registered guns per 100 people in Costa Rica is 3.555

Government Guns

Compare
Number of Military Firearms

The defence forces of Costa Rica are reported to have 06 7 firearms

Compare
Number of Law Enforcement Firearms

Police in Costa Rica are reported to have 5,0006 8 firearms

ImpactsDeath and Injury

Compare
Total Number of Gun Deaths

In Costa Rica, annual deaths resulting from firearms total 2002: 1879 10

Compare
Rate of All Gun Deaths per 100,000 People

In Costa Rica, the annual rate of all gun deaths per 100,000 population is 2002: 4.655

Compare
Homicides (any method)

ChartIn Costa Rica, annual homicides by any means total

2011: 4749
2010: 527
2009: 5259 11
2008: 512
2007: 369
2006: 351
2005: 335
2004: 280
2003: 300
2002: 258
2001: 257
2000: 249
1999: 2459
1998: 224
1997: 210
1996: 189
1995: 184

Compare
Rate of Homicide per 100,000 People (any method)

ChartIn Costa Rica, the annual rate of homicide by any means per 100,000 population is

2011: 10.09
2010: 11.3
2009: 11.49 11
2008: 11.3
2007: 8.3
2006: 8.0
2005: 7.8
2004: 6.6
2003: 7.2
2002: 6.3
2001: 6.4
2000: 6.4
1999: 6.49
1998: 6.0
1997: 5.8
1996: 5.3
1995: 5.3

Compare
Gun Homicides

ChartIn Costa Rica, annual firearm homicides total

2006: 2019
2005: 196
2004: 150
2003: 147
2002: 131
2001: 134
1999: 126
1998: 118
1997: 108
1996: 95
1995: 87

Compare
Rate of Gun Homicide per 100,000 People

ChartIn Costa Rica, the annual rate of firearm homicide per 100,000 population is

2006: 4.69 11
2005: 4.5
2004: 3.5
2003: 3.59
2002: 3.2
2001: 3.3
1999: 3.3
1998: 3.2
1997: 3.0
1996: 2.7
1995: 2.5

Compare
Suicides (any method)

ChartIn Costa Rica, annual suicides by any means total

2006: 35012
1995: 21110

Compare
Rate of Suicide per 100,000 People (any method)

ChartIn Costa Rica, the annual rate of suicide by any means per 100,000 population is

2007: 7.0012
2006: 8.00
2005: 6.30
1995: 5.0610

Compare
Gun Suicides

In Costa Rica, annual firearm suicides total 2002: 5310

Compare
Rate of Gun Suicide per 100,000 People

In Costa Rica, the annual rate of firearm suicide per 100,000 population is 2002: 1.2710

Compare
Unintentional Gun Deaths

In Costa Rica, annual unintentional shooting deaths total 2002: 310

Compare
Rate of Unintentional Gun Death per 100,000 People

In Costa Rica, the annual rate of unintentional shooting death per 100,000 population is 2002: 0.0710

Compare
Gun Deaths from Undetermined Cause

In Costa Rica, annual shooting deaths in which the cause remains undecided total 2000: 1010

Compare
Rate of Gun Death from Undetermined Cause per 100,000 People

In Costa Rica, the annual rate of unknown-cause shooting deaths per 100,000 population is 2000: 0.2410

ProductionGun Industry

Compare
Regulation of Firearm Makers

In Costa Rica, the manufacture of small arms, ammunition and/or their components is permitted only if the maker holds a valid licence13 14 15 16

TransfersGun Trade and Trafficking

Compare
Regulation of Firearm Exports

In Costa Rica, firearm and ammunition exports are limited by transfer control law13 17 14 18

Compare
Small Arms Exports (US$) - Customs

The annual value of small arms and ammunition exports from Costa Rica is reported by Customs to be US$33619 (2011)

Compare
Regulation of Firearm Imports

In Costa Rica, firearm and ammunition imports are limited by transfer control law13 20 21 14 22 23 24 25 18 26

Compare
Small Arms Imports (US$) - Customs

The annual value of small arms and ammunition imports to Costa Rica is reported by Customs to be US$3,619,98019 (2011)

Compare
Smuggling Guns and Ammunition

Reports suggest that the level of firearm and ammunition smuggling in Costa Rica is moderate4

Compare
Regulation of Arms Brokers

In Costa Rica, the activities of arms brokers and transfer intermediaries are not specifically regulated by law27 28

Compare
End User Certificates

Customs regulations in Costa Rica do not include27 28 certification of the intended end user of any small arms or ammunition transfer, and/or a written declaration of its intended end use

MeasuresGun Regulation

Compare
Firearm Regulation - Guiding Policy

The regulation of guns in Costa Rica is categorised as restrictive29

Firearm Law

Guiding gun control legislation in Costa Rica includes the Arms and Explosives Law - 7530 of 199530 16 and the Regulation of the Arms and Explosives Law, Decree 25120-SP of 199631

Firearm Regulation Authority

Guns in Costa Rica are regulated by the Armaments Directorate, the Arms Registry, the National Arsenal, and the Arms and Explosives Control Department32 33 34

Compare
Right to Possess Firearms

In Costa Rica, the right to private gun ownership is not guaranteed by law35 36 37

Compare
Restricted Firearms and Ammunition

In Costa Rica, civilians are not allowed to possess automatic firearms, machine guns, sub-machine guns, semi-automatic rifles and carbine with magazines that hold more than ten bullets (except rimfire cartridges), silencers, and armour-piercing, tracer, explosive and incendiary ammunition38 39

Compare
Regulation of Automatic Weapons

In Costa Rica, private possession of fully automatic weapons is prohibited38 39 40

Compare
Regulation of Semiautomatic Assault Weapons

In Costa Rica, private possession of semi-automatic assault weapons is permitted under licence,41 42 with some restrictions43

Compare
Regulation of Handguns

In Costa Rica, private possession of handguns (pistols and revolvers) is permitted under licence,41 42 with some restrictions43

Compare
Gun Ownership and Possession

In Costa Rica, only the owners of licensed (registered) guns44 37 45 46 47 may lawfully acquire, possess or transfer a firearm or ammunition

Compare
Genuine Reason Required for Firearm Possession

Applicants for a gun owner’s licence in Costa Rica are required to establish a genuine reason to possess a firearm, for example, personal protection, security, hunting, sports shooting and collection36 37 45 46 48 49

Compare
Minimum Age for Firearm Possession

The minimum age for gun ownership in Costa Rica is 18 years to possess and carry, or 14 years for hunting and target shooting while under the immediate supervision of an appropriately licensed adult50 51 52

Compare
Gun Licence Background Check

An applicant for a firearm licence in Costa Rica must pass a background check which considers criminal and mental53 54 55 56 records

Compare
Reference Required for Firearm Licence

In Costa Rica, third party character references for each gun licence applicant are not required27 28

Compare
Domestic Violence and Firearms

Where a past history, or apprehended likelihood of family violence exists, the law in Costa Rica does not stipulate27 28 that a gun licence should be denied or revoked

Compare
Firearm Safety Training

In Costa Rica, an understanding of firearm safety and the law, tested in a theoretical and/or practical training course is required57 58 59 60 16 for a firearm licence

Compare
Gun Owner Licensing Period

In Costa Rica gun owners must re-apply and re-qualify for their firearm licence every year, only for a special licence to carry a firearm for self-defence37 61

Compare
Licensing Records

In Costa Rica, authorities maintain a record44 57 53 60 16 of individual civilians licensed to acquire, possess, sell or transfer a firearm or ammunition

Compare
Limit on Number of Guns

Licensed firearm owners in Costa Rica are permitted to possess no more than three firearms intended for personal protection, but there is no limit on small calibre hunting and target shooting firearms44 62 63

Compare
Limit on Quantity, Type of Ammunition

Licensed firearm owners in Costa Rica are permitted to possess any quantity of ammunition27 28

Firearm Registration

Compare
Civilian Gun Registration

In Costa Rica, the law requires44 57 54 60 16 53 that a record of the acquisition, possession and transfer of each privately held firearm be retained in an official register

Compare
Gun Dealer Record Keeping

In Costa Rica, licensed firearm dealers are required64 24 65 63 to keep a record of each firearm or ammunition purchase, sale or transfer on behalf of a regulating authority

Compare
State-Owned Firearm Records

In Costa Rica, State agencies are required32 66 67 to maintain records of the storage and movement of all firearms and ammunition under their control

Gun Sales and Transfers

Compare
Background Checks for Dealer Gun Sales

The buyer of a firearm from a licensed gun dealer in Costa Rica is obliged53 54 68 26 to pass official background checks before taking possession

Compare
Regulation of Dealer Gun Sales

In Costa Rica, dealing in firearms by way of business without a valid gun dealer’s licence is unlawful13 69 14 70 26

Compare
Waiting Period for Gun Possession

In Costa Rica, the minimum wait for a lawful firearm purchase to be completed is undetermined27 28

Storage and Transport of Guns and Ammunition

Compare
Firearm and Ammunition Storage Regulations - Private

Firearm regulations in Costa Rica include36 71 72 written specifications for the lawful safe storage of private firearms and ammunition by licensed gun owners

Compare
Firearm and Ammunition Storage Regulations - Dealer

Firearm regulations in Costa Rica include69 73 70 74 26 written specifications for the lawful safe storage of firearms and ammunition by licensed arms dealers

Compare
Firearm and Ammunition Storage Regulations - Government

Government regulations in Costa Rica include75 written specifications for the lawful safe storage of firearms and ammunition by state entities

Compare
Firearm and Ammunition Transport Regulations

Regulations in Costa Rica include22 written specifications for the lawful safe storage of firearms and ammunition while in transit

Marking and Tracing Guns and Ammunition

Compare
Firearm Marking

In Costa Rica, a unique identifying mark on each firearm is required by law76

Compare
Firearm Tracing

In Costa Rica, state authorities carry out53 76 recognised arms tracing and tracking procedures

Compare
Ballistic Marking of Firearms and Ammunition

In Costa Rica, state authorities employ53 63 ballistic fingerprinting technology to trace guns and ammunition

Carrying Guns

Compare
Carrying Guns Openly in Public

In Costa Rica, carrying a firearm in plain view in a public place is prohibited77 48

Compare
Carrying Hidden Handguns in Public

In Costa Rica, carrying a concealed firearm in a public place is allowed, subject to a valid permit77 37 48 49

Compare
Gun Free Zones

In Costa Rica, private guns are prohibited in State facilities, public institutions, health and educational institutions, and in demonstrations or public meetings78

Compare
Penalty for Illicit Firearm Possession

In Costa Rica, the maximum penalty for unlawful possession of a firearm79 is 5 years prison80 81

Compare
Collection, Amnesty and Destruction Programmes

Authorities in Costa Rica are known to have82 83 84 85 34 implemented voluntary firearm surrender schemes, and/or weapon seizure programmes in order to reduce the number of illicit firearms in circulation

Compare
Firearms Collected and Seized

In Costa Rica, firearms voluntarily surrendered for destruction, collected or seized in routine policing are reported to number 38,00086 (2010-2014),87 3,241 88(2004), 1,002 (2003), and 1,047 (2002)

Compare
Small Arms Destroyed

In Costa Rica, the total number of firearms destroyed following recent amnesty, collection and seizure programmes is reported to be 10,97484 (2006-2008) and 32,00086 (2012-2014)87

Compare
Destruction and Disposal Policy

In Costa Rica, it is not state policy89 83 90 63 to destroy surplus, collected and seized firearms rather than return them to the secondary arms market

MeasuresInternational Controls

Regional Agreements

Central American Integration System

As a member of the Central American Integration System (SICA), Costa Rica is party to the 2007 Central American Programme on Small Arms Control and the Code of Conduct of Central American States on the Transfer of Arms, Ammunition, Explosives and Other Related Material91

Organization of American States

On 14 November 1997, as a member of the Organisation of American States (OAS), Costa Rica adopted the Inter-American Convention against the Illicit Manufacturing of and Trafficking in Firearms, Explosives, Ammunition and Other Related Materials (CIFTA), a legally binding multilateral treaty of which the OAS is depository. The CIFTA Convention has since been signed and ratified92 93 by Costa Rica

Compare
Geneva Declaration on Armed Violence and Development

The Geneva Declaration on Armed Violence and Development, a diplomatic initiative aimed at addressing the interrelations between armed violence and development, was signed in 200694 by Costa Rica.

Compare
United Nations Arms Trade Treaty

The United Nations Arms Trade Treaty has been signed and ratified95 by Costa Rica

United Nations Firearms Protocol

The United Nations Protocol against the Illicit Manufacturing of and Trafficking in Firearms, Their Parts and Components and Ammunition has been signed and ratified96 by Costa Rica

United Nations Small Arms Programme of Action UNPoA

Compare
UNPoA Commitment

On 21 July 2001, Costa Rica committed to a consensus decision of the United Nations to adopt, support and implement the UN Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects97

Compare
UNPoA Implementation Monitor Score

In its UN small arms Programme of Action Implementation Monitor (PoAIM Phase 1), the Small Arms Survey scored Costa Rica against its commitments to the PoA, then ranked it at No. 11598 99 100 101 among 159 Member States

Compare
UNPoA National Reporting

Under the terms of its 2001 commitment to the United Nations small arms Programme of Action, Costa Rica has submitted one or more national reports102 103 on its implementation of the UNPoA

Compare
UNPoA National Point of Contact

In Costa Rica, a National Point of Contact to deal with issues relating to the UNPoA has been designated104 103

Compare
UNPoA National Coordinating Body

In Costa Rica, a National Coordinating Body to deal with issues relating to the UNPoA has been designated104

Compare
UNPoA Civil Society Involvement and Support

In National Reports of Costa Rica submitted to the UN, a history of substantive cooperation with civil society in support of UNPoA activities is apparent105

UNPoA International Assistance – Donor

Funds for UNPoA implementation have not been donated103 by Costa Rica to other UN Member States

UNPoA International Assistance – Recipient

Funds for UNPoA implementation have been provided103 to Costa Rica by other UN Member States

United Nations Small Arms Register

According to the United Nations Register of Conventional Arms, Costa Rica has not declared106 its small arms exports in one or more annual National Reports on Arms Exports.

United Nations Membership

In the UN List of Member States, Costa Rica has been a Member State of the United Nations since 1945107

Wassenaar Arrangement

The Wassenaar Arrangement on Export Controls and Conventional Arms and Dual-Use Goods and Technologies does not list108 Costa Rica as a Participating State

BackgroundCountry Profile

Link
Conflict Profile

For a profile of conflict in Costa Rica, select the Link icon to open an external web page from the UCDP Conflict Encyclopedia at Uppsala University

Link
Global Peace Index

To see where Costa Rica ranks, select the Link icon to open an external web page at the Global Peace Index

Short References

1.

Karp, Aaron.2012.‘Estimated Civilian Gun Ownership.’ Measurement and Use of Statistical Data to Analyze Small Arms in the Caribbean and Latin America.Mexico City:United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the Center of Excellence, National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI),28 April. (Q8972)Full Citation

2.

Karp, Aaron.2007.‘Completing the Count: Civilian firearms - Annexe online.’ Small Arms Survey 2007: Guns and the City.Cambridge:Cambridge University Press,27 August. (Q5)Full Citation

3.

Karp, Aaron.2007.‘Completing the Count: Civilian firearms.’ Small Arms Survey 2007: Guns and the City.Cambridge:Cambridge University Press,27 August. (Q4)Full Citation

4.

United Nations.1999.‘Analysis of Country Responses.’ United Nations International Study on Firearm Regulation.Vienna:UN Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice Division,30 August. (Q1)Full Citation

5.

GunPolicy.org.2014.‘Calculated Rates - Costa Rica.’ Historical Population Data - USCB International Data Base.Suitland, MD:US Census Bureau Population Division,4 July. (Q4219)Full Citation

6.

Karp, Aaron.2012.‘State Firearms Ownership.’ Measurement and Use of Statistical Data to Analyze Small Arms in the Caribbean and Latin America.Mexico City:United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the Center of Excellence, National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI),28 April. (Q8973)Full Citation

7.

Karp, Aaron.2006.‘Trickle and Torrent: State stockpiles.’ Small Arms Survey 2006: Unfinished Business.Oxford:Oxford University Press,1 July. (Q6)Full Citation

8.

Karp, Aaron.2006.‘Trickle and Torrent: State stockpiles.’ Small Arms Survey 2006: Unfinished Business.Oxford:Oxford University Press,1 July. (Q7)Full Citation

9.

UNODC.2013.‘Homicide in 207 Countries - Costa Rica.’ Global Study on Homicide 2011: Trends, Context, Data.Vienna:United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime,26 June. (Q6349)Full Citation

10.

Jackson, Thomas.2005.‘Global Gun Deaths.’ NISAT Firearm Mortality Database 2005.Oslo:Norwegian Initiative on Small Arms Transfers,1 January. (Q12)Full Citation

11.

OAS Observatory on Citizen Security.2011.‘Intentional Homicide.’ Report on Citizen Security in the Americas 2011.Washington, DC:Organisation of American States,1 January. (Q5678)Full Citation

12.

OAS Observatory on Citizen Security.2011.‘Suicide.’ Report on Citizen Security in the Americas 2011.Washington, DC:Organisation of American States,1 January. (Q5680)Full Citation

13.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Manufacture, Storage, Trade, Import and Export (Fabricación, Almacenamiento, Comercio, Importación y Exportación).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4165)Full Citation

14.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Features of the Licence (Características del Permiso).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4171)Full Citation

15.

Costa Rica.1996.‘Licence to Manufacture Permitted Arms (Permiso de Fabricación de Armas Permitidas).’ Regulation of the Arms and Explosives Law, Decree 25120-SP of 1996 (Reglamento a la Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Decreto 25120-SP de 1996).San Jose:Presidency of Costa Rica,13 June. (Q4304)Full Citation

16.

Costa Rica.2003.‘National Report 2003 - Registration (Informe Nacional 2003 - Registro).’ National Report of Costa Rica on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New York:Permanent Mission of Costa Rica to the United Nations,27 June. (Q3692)Full Citation

17.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Export Requirements (Requisitos para Exportar).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4162)Full Citation

18.

Costa Rica.2003.‘National Report 2003 - Import and Export Controls (Informe Nacional 2003 - Importación y Exportación).’ National Report of Costa Rica on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New York:Permanent Mission of Costa Rica to the United Nations,27 June. (Q3689)Full Citation

19.

Marsh, Nicholas.2013.‘Database of Authorised Transfers of Small Arms and Light Weapons.’ NISAT Small Arms Trade Database.Oslo:Norwegian Initiative on Small Arms Transfers,14 February. (Q16)Full Citation

20.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Licence to Import Ammunition (Permiso para Importar Tiros).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4132)Full Citation

21.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Permit to Foreigners to Import Arms and Ammunition (Permiso a Extranjeros para Ingresar Armas y Tiros).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4139)Full Citation

22.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Safety Requirements to Import Arms (Requerimientos de Seguridad para Importar Armas).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4173)Full Citation

23.

Costa Rica.1996.‘Regular Licence to Import Arms - Requirements (Requisitos del Permiso Regular de Importacion de Armas).’ Regulation of the Arms and Explosives Law, Decree 25120-SP of 1996 (Reglamento a la Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Decreto 25120-SP de 1996).San Jose:Presidency of Costa Rica,13 June. (Q4320)Full Citation

24.

Costa Rica.1996.‘Applying for a Licence to Import Arms (Solicitud del Permiso de Importación de Armas).’ Regulation of the Arms and Explosives Law, Decree 25120-SP of 1996 (Reglamento a la Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Decreto 25120-SP de 1996).San Jose:Presidency of Costa Rica,13 June. (Q4321)Full Citation

25.

Costa Rica.1996.‘Occasional Licence to Import Permitted Firearms (Permiso de Importación Ocasional de Armas Permitidas).’ Regulation of the Arms and Explosives Law, Decree 25120-SP of 1996 (Reglamento a la Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Decreto 25120-SP de 1996).San Jose:Presidency of Costa Rica,13 June. (Q4322)Full Citation

26.

Costa Rica.2003.‘National Report 2003 - Regulation of Firearm Sales (Informe Nacional 2003 - Regulación de la Venta de Armas).’ National Report of Costa Rica on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New York:Permanent Mission of Costa Rica to the United Nations,27 June. (Q3687)Full Citation

27.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Scope (Campo de Aplicación).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4318)Full Citation

28.

Costa Rica.1996.‘Scope (Campo de Aplicación).’ Regulation of the Arms and Explosives Law, Decree 25120-SP of 1996 (Reglamento a la Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Decreto 25120-SP de 1996).San Jose:Presidency of Costa Rica,13 June. (Q4914)Full Citation

29.

Newton, George D and Franklin E Zimring.1969.‘Firearm Licensing: Permissive v Restrictive.’ Firearms & Violence in American Life: A staff report submitted to the National Commission on the Causes and Prevention of Violence.Washington, DC:US Government Printing Office,1 January. (Q22)Full Citation

30.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Scope (Campo de Aplicación).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4317)Full Citation

31.

Costa Rica.1996.‘Scope (Campo de Aplicación).’ Regulation of the Arms and Explosives Law, Decree 25120-SP of 1996 (Reglamento a la Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Decreto 25120-SP de 1996).San Jose:Presidency of Costa Rica,13 June. (Q4913)Full Citation

32.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Creation (Creación).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4056)Full Citation

33.

Costa Rica.2003.‘National Report 2003 - Regulation Authority (Informe Nacional 2003 - Autoridad Reguladora).’ National Report of Costa Rica on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New York:Permanent Mission of Costa Rica to the United Nations,27 June. (Q3686)Full Citation

34.

Godnick, William and Helena Vasquez.2003.‘Costa Rica: Small Arms Control.’ Small Arms Control in Central America: Monitoring the Implementation of Small Arms Control Projects (MISAC).London:International Alert, Security and Peacebuilding Programme,1 June. (Q5566)Full Citation

35.

Sherman, Amy and Tom Ginsburg.2014.‘Gun Rights in National Constitutions.’ Marco Rubio Says Second Amendment Is Unique in Speech to NRA.Miami FL:Miami Herald (PolitiFact Florida),29 April. (Q8507)Full Citation

36.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Possession and Use of Permitted Firearms (Posesión y Uso de Armas Permitidas).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4109)Full Citation

37.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Special Licence (Permiso Especial).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4130)Full Citation

38.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Prohibited Firearms (Armas Prohibidas).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4107)Full Citation

39.

Costa Rica.1996.‘Prohibited Firearms (Armas Prohibidas).’ Regulation of the Arms and Explosives Law, Decree 25120-SP of 1996 (Reglamento a la Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Decreto 25120-SP de 1996).San Jose:Presidency of Costa Rica,13 June. (Q4196)Full Citation

40.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Prohibited Firearm Collections (Colección de Armas Prohibidas).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4179)Full Citation

41.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Permitted Firearms (Armas Permitidas).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4110)Full Citation

42.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Sporting Arms (Armas para Deportistas).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4135)Full Citation

43.

Costa Rica.1996.‘Permitted Firearms (Armas Permitidas).’ Regulation of the Arms and Explosives Law, Decree 25120-SP of 1996 (Reglamento a la Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Decreto 25120-SP de 1996).San Jose:Presidency of Costa Rica,13 June. (Q4195)Full Citation

44.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Firearm Registration by Individuals (Inscripción de Armas por Parte de Personas Físicas).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4106)Full Citation

45.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Scope of the Licence (Alcances del Permiso de Inscripción).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4136)Full Citation

46.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Firearm Collectors (Poseedores de Colecciones).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4177)Full Citation

47.

Costa Rica.1996.‘Registration of Permitted Firearm Collections (Permiso de Inscripción de Armas Permitidas de Colección).’ Regulation of the Arms and Explosives Law, Decree 25120-SP of 1996 (Reglamento a la Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Decreto 25120-SP de 1996).San Jose:Presidency of Costa Rica,13 June. (Q4373)Full Citation

48.

Costa Rica.1996.‘Special Licence to Carry Arms (Permiso Especial de Portación).’ Regulation of the Arms and Explosives Law, Decree 25120-SP of 1996 (Reglamento a la Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Decreto 25120-SP de 1996).San Jose:Presidency of Costa Rica,13 June. (Q4301)Full Citation

49.

Costa Rica.1996.‘Special Licence to Carry Arms - Requirements (Requisitos del Permiso Especial).’ Regulation of the Arms and Explosives Law, Decree 25120-SP of 1996 (Reglamento a la Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Decreto 25120-SP de 1996).San Jose:Presidency of Costa Rica,13 June. (Q4303)Full Citation

50.

Costa Rica.1995.‘People Who Cannot Carry Arms (Personas Inhibidas para Portar Armas).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4055)Full Citation

51.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Requirements (Requisitos).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4108)Full Citation

52.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Licence for Minors (Permisos a Menores).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4138)Full Citation

53.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Intervention of the Department (Intervención del Departamento).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4111)Full Citation

54.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Registering a Firearm (Solicitudes de Inscripción).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4131)Full Citation

55.

Costa Rica.1996.‘Criminal Record Certificate (Certificado de Antecedentes Penales).’ Regulation of the Arms and Explosives Law, Decree 25120-SP of 1996 (Reglamento a la Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Decreto 25120-SP de 1996).San Jose:Presidency of Costa Rica,13 June. (Q4198)Full Citation

56.

Costa Rica.1996.‘Competence Certificate (Requisito de Idoneidad).’ Regulation of the Arms and Explosives Law, Decree 25120-SP of 1996 (Reglamento a la Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Decreto 25120-SP de 1996).San Jose:Presidency of Costa Rica,13 June. (Q4302)Full Citation

57.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Requirements to Register Firearms (Requisitos para Inscribir Armas).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4105)Full Citation

58.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Requirements for the Firearm Carrying Licence (Requisitos para Permisos de Portación de Armas).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4299)Full Citation

59.

Costa Rica.1996.‘Scope of the Department and Theoretical and Practical Test (Facultad del Departamento y Examen Teórico Práctico).’ Regulation of the Arms and Explosives Law, Decree 25120-SP of 1996 (Reglamento a la Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Decreto 25120-SP de 1996).San Jose:Presidency of Costa Rica,13 June. (Q4197)Full Citation

60.

Costa Rica.1996.‘Obligation to Register (Obligatoriedad de Inscribir).’ Regulation of the Arms and Explosives Law, Decree 25120-SP of 1996 (Reglamento a la Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Decreto 25120-SP de 1996).San Jose:Presidency of Costa Rica,13 June. (Q4319)Full Citation

61.

Costa Rica.1996.‘Renewal of the Special Licence to Carry Arms (Vigencia del Permiso Especial de Portación).’ Regulation of the Arms and Explosives Law, Decree 25120-SP of 1996 (Reglamento a la Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Decreto 25120-SP de 1996).San Jose:Presidency of Costa Rica,13 June. (Q4300)Full Citation

62.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Number of Permitted Arms (Cantidad de Armas Permitidas).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4137)Full Citation

63.

Godnick, William and Helena Vasquez.2003.‘Costa Rica: Domestic Arms Control Laws.’ Small Arms Control in Central America: Monitoring the Implementation of Small Arms Control Projects (MISAC).London:International Alert, Security and Peacebuilding Programme,1 June. (Q5567)Full Citation

64.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Information Sent by Dealers (Información de los Comerciantes).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4163)Full Citation

65.

Costa Rica.1996.‘Monthly Report (Reporte Mensual).’ Regulation of the Arms and Explosives Law, Decree 25120-SP of 1996 (Reglamento a la Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Decreto 25120-SP de 1996).San Jose:Presidency of Costa Rica,13 June. (Q4371)Full Citation

66.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Control of State Arms (Control de Armas en Poder del Estado).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4057)Full Citation

67.

Costa Rica.2003.‘National Report 2003 - Government Firearms (Informe Nacional 2003 - Armas en Manos del Estado).’ National Report of Costa Rica on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New York:Permanent Mission of Costa Rica to the United Nations,27 June. (Q3682)Full Citation

68.

Costa Rica.1996.‘Prerequisite for the Sale of Permitted Arms (Requisito Previo a la Venta de Armas Permitidas).’ Regulation of the Arms and Explosives Law, Decree 25120-SP of 1996 (Reglamento a la Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Decreto 25120-SP de 1996).San Jose:Presidency of Costa Rica,13 June. (Q4370)Full Citation

69.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Registration of Businesses (Inscripción de Establecimientos).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4164)Full Citation

70.

Costa Rica.1996.‘Registration of Gun Shops (Inscripción de Establecimientos para la Venta de Armas).’ Regulation of the Arms and Explosives Law, Decree 25120-SP of 1996 (Reglamento a la Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Decreto 25120-SP de 1996).San Jose:Presidency of Costa Rica,13 June. (Q4323)Full Citation

71.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Security of Firearm Collections (Seguridad para las Colecciones).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4178)Full Citation

72.

Costa Rica.1996.‘Security of Firearm Collections (Seguridad para las Colecciones).’ Regulation of the Arms and Explosives Law, Decree 25120-SP of 1996 (Reglamento a la Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Decreto 25120-SP de 1996).San Jose:Presidency of Costa Rica,13 June. (Q4374)Full Citation

73.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Storage Restrictions (Restricciones para el Almacenamiento).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4172)Full Citation

74.

Costa Rica.1996.‘Inspection of Businesses (Inspección del Establecimiento).’ Regulation of the Arms and Explosives Law, Decree 25120-SP of 1996 (Reglamento a la Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Decreto 25120-SP de 1996).San Jose:Presidency of Costa Rica,13 June. (Q4369)Full Citation

75.

Costa Rica.2003.‘National Report 2003 - Stockpile Managment (Informe Nacional 2003 - Manejo de Arsenal).’ National Report of Costa Rica on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New York:Permanent Mission of Costa Rica to the United Nations,27 June. (Q3691)Full Citation

76.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Marking of Government Arms (Identificación de Armas Gubernamentales).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4054)Full Citation

77.

Costa Rica.1995.‘How to Carry Firearms (Forma de Portar Armas).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4129)Full Citation

78.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Firearm Carrying in State Institutions (Ingreso de Armas a Instituciones Estatales).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4133)Full Citation

79.

GunPolicy.org. 2015. ‘Penalty for Unlawful Firearm Possession.’ Definition and Selection Criteria.
Sydney School of Public Health, 23 January. (G93) Full Citation

80.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Possession of Prohibited Firearms (Tenencia de Armas Prohibidas).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4175)Full Citation

81.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Possession and Carrying of Permitted Firearms (Tenencia y Portación de Armas Permitidas).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4176)Full Citation

82.

UNDPI.2006.‘Major Review at United Nations to Assess Progress Made, Actions Needed to Further Stem Illegal Small Arms Trade.’ Department of Public Information, News and Media Division, Peace and Security Section.New York:United Nations,20 June. (Q5075)Full Citation

83.

Costa Rica.2005.‘National Report 2005 - Seizure and Destruction (Informe Nacional 2005 - Incautación y Destrucción).’ National Report of Costa Rica on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New York:Permanent Mission of Costa Rica to the United Nations,8 July. (Q3681)Full Citation

84.

Espinoza, Ana Yancy.2010.‘Seized and Destroyed Arms (Armas Decomisadas y Destruidas).’ IX Seminar: Control of Arms Transfers and Trafficking - Compilation (IX Seminario: Control del Tráfico y Transferencia de Armas de Fuego - Sistematización).Santa Marta:United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime / UNODC,25 February. (Q5508)Full Citation

85.

REDCEPAZ.2006.‘Seized Firearms (Decomiso de Armas).’ The Problem of Illegal Arms in Central America (El problema de las Armas Ilegales en Centroamérica).Guatemala City:REDCEPAZ (Red Centroamericana para la Construcción de la Paz y la Seguridad Humana),1 March. (Q5509)Full Citation

86.

Zach Dyer. 2014. ‘Public Security Ministry Destroys Record Number Of Guns.’ Tico Times (Costa Rica). 28 March. (N365) Full Citation

87.

Latin American Herald Tribune (Venezuela). 2013. ‘Costa Rica Has Seized More Than 8,000 Illegal Firearms Since 2010.’ 3 December. (N366) Full Citation

88.

CICAD.2005.‘Number of Confiscated Firearms (2002, 2003 and 2004).’ Costa Rica: Evaluation of Progress in Drug Control 2003-2004.Washington DC:Organization of American States, Inter-American Drug Abuse Control Commission (CICAD),10 August. (Q8890)Full Citation

89.

Costa Rica.1996.‘Seized Firearms (Armas Decomisadas).’ Regulation of the Arms and Explosives Law, Decree 25120-SP of 1996 (Reglamento a la Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Decreto 25120-SP de 1996).San Jose:Presidency of Costa Rica,13 June. (Q4372)Full Citation

90.

Costa Rica.1995.‘Firearm Seizure (Comiso de Armas).’ Arms and Explosives Law 7530 of 1995 (Ley de Armas y Explosivos, Ley 7530 de 1995).San Jose:Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica,10 July. (Q4174)Full Citation

91.

UNODA.2007.‘Central American Programme on Small Arms Control.’ United Nations Programme of Action Implementation Support System: Regional Organisations.New York:Central American Integration System / United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs,1 January. (Q3221)Full Citation

92.

OAS / UNODA.1997.‘Inter-American Convention against the Illicit Manufacturing of and Trafficking in Firearms, Explosives, Ammunition and Other Related Materials / CIFTA.’ United Nations Programme of Action Implementation Support System: Regional Organisations.New York:Organization of American States / United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs,14 November. (Q3244)Full Citation

93.

OAS.1997.‘Inter-American Convention against the Illicit Manufacturing of and Trafficking in Firearms, Explosives, Ammunition and Other Related Materials (CIFTA): Signatures and Ratifications.’ Organization of American States, Department of International Law.Washington DC:Organization of American States,14 November. (Q3262)Full Citation

94.

GDAV.2006.‘Geneva Declaration.’ Geneva Declaration on Armed Violence and Development.Geneva:Geneva Declaration on Armed Violence and Development Secretariat,7 June. (Q7162)Full Citation

95.

UNODA.2013.‘Towards Entry Into Force.’ Arms Trade Treaty.New York NY:United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs,2 April. (Q7226)Full Citation

96.

UNGA.2001.‘United Nations Protocol against the Illicit Manufacturing of and Trafficking in Firearms, Their Parts and Components and Ammunition.’ UN General Assembly Resolution 55/255.New York:UN General Assembly,31 May. (Q17)Full Citation

97.

UNGA.2001.‘Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects.’ United Nations General Assembly.New York:UN General Assembly,20 July. (Q18)Full Citation

98.

Parker, Sarah and Katherine Green.2012.‘Findings - Table 3: Reporting States by Rank and Score.’ The Programme of Action Implementation Monitor (Phase 1): Assessing Reported Progress.Geneva:Small Arms Survey, the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies,1 August. (Q8752)Full Citation

99.

Parker, Sarah and Katherine Green.2012.‘What do the PoAIM Scores Represent? How Should the PoAIM Scores Be Interpreted?.’ The Programme of Action Implementation Monitor (Phase 1): Assessing Reported Progress.Geneva:Small Arms Survey, the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies,1 August. (Q8753)Full Citation

100.

Parker, Sarah and Katherine Green.2012.‘Point Allocation System.’ The Programme of Action Implementation Monitor (Phase 1): Assessing Reported Progress.Geneva:Small Arms Survey, the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies,1 August. (Q8754)Full Citation

101.

Parker, Sarah and Katherine Green.2012.‘Introduction.’ The Programme of Action Implementation Monitor (Phase 1): Assessing Reported Progress.Geneva:Small Arms Survey, the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies,1 August. (Q8755)Full Citation

102.

Cattaneo, Silvia and Sarah Parker.2008.‘Reporting, NPCs and NCAs, 2002 to 2008.’ Implementing the United Nations Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons: Analysis of the National Reports submitted by States from 2002 to 2008.Geneva:United Nations Development Programme,1 November. (Q20)Full Citation

103.

UNODA.2009.‘PoA-ISS Country Profiles.’ UN small arms Programme of Action (UNPoA) - Implementation Support System.New York:United Nations Office of Disarmament Affairs,29 October. (Q1309)Full Citation

104.

IANSA.2006.‘Reviewing Action on Small Arms 2006: Assessing the first five years of the UN Programme of Action.’ Biting the Bullet 'Red Book' 2006.New York:International Action Network on Small Arms and the Biting the Bullet project,26 June. (Q166)Full Citation

105.

Costa Rica.2005.‘National Report 2005 - International Cooperation (Informe Nacional 2005 - Cooperación Internacional).’ National Report of Costa Rica on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA).New York:Permanent Mission of Costa Rica to the United Nations,8 July. (Q3684)Full Citation

106.

UNODA.2011.‘National Reports on Small Arms Exports.’ United Nations Register of Conventional Arms - The Global Reported Arms Trade.New York:United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs,21 October. (Q14)Full Citation

107.

UN.2013.‘Member States of the United Nations.’ UN.org Web Site.New York:United Nations General Assembly,7 April. (Q290)Full Citation

108.

Wassenaar Arrangement.1996.‘Introduction: Participating States.’ Wassenaar Arrangement on Export Controls and Conventional Arms and Dual-Use Goods and Technologies.Vienna:Wassenaar Secretariat,12 July. (Q19)Full Citation