Policy
Government of Costa Rica grants Bukele the Juan Mora Fernández decoration
The distinction seeks to recognize the merits of those people who, without being Costa Rican, deserve to be honored for reasons of national convenience.
By Arianna Villalobos Solís
November 5, 2024, 07:02 pm
The Legislative Assembly of El Salvador authorized this Tuesday the president of his country, Nayib Bukele, to receive the Juan Mora Fernández decoration awarded by the Government of Costa Rica. This recognition is intended for foreigners who, for reasons of national convenience, deserve to be distinguished.
In the session of the Salvadoran legislative body, it was announced that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship of Costa Rica sent a letter in which it reported that “President Rodrigo Chaves Robles intends to decorate the President of the Republic of El Salvador, Nayib Bukele, with the Juan Mora Fernández National Order, for his contributions in matters of public security, making El Salvador one of the safest countries in the world.”
The decoration was awarded in the Grand Cross Gold Plate degree, which is reserved exclusively for heads and former presidents of State, heads of Government, elected presidents, grand masters of internationally recognized sovereign orders and governors of free States associated with other countries.
This type of award has its origin in a 1991 executive decree, known as the Statutes of the Juan Mora Fernández National Order (no. 20572-RE), designed for the Costa Rican State to recognize exceptional merits. The decoration is named after the first head of State of Costa Rica and its granting requires an agreement between the President of the Republic and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship.
Nayib Bukele will visit the country next week. The details of your agenda will be communicated until tomorrow, Wednesday, November 6.
By Juan Mora Fernandez
The Nation
Interview between Time.news Editor and International Relations Expert
Editor: Welcome, everyone, to another edition of Time.news! Today, we have a special guest, Dr. Maria Rodriguez, an expert in international relations, to discuss a recent diplomatic move that has stirred considerable interest. Dr. Rodriguez, thank you for joining us!
Dr. Rodriguez: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss this fascinating development.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. The Government of Costa Rica has granted Nayib Bukele the prestigious Juan Mora Fernández decoration. This award is typically bestowed upon non-Costa Ricans who have made significant contributions to the nation. What does this particular recognition signify in the context of Central American politics?
Dr. Rodriguez: This decoration is quite meaningful. It highlights not only Costa Rica’s acknowledgment of Bukele’s actions but also signifies a symbolic gesture of solidarity within the region. By honoring a leader like Bukele, it suggests that Costa Rica values his approaches to governance and regional cooperation, despite the complexities that El Salvador faces.
Editor: Interesting point. Can you elaborate on what this might mean for Costa Rica’s relationship with El Salvador moving forward?
Dr. Rodriguez: Certainly. This award can be seen as a stepping stone for strengthening bilateral ties. Costa Rica may be signaling its willingness to engage deeper with El Salvador, potentially opening doors for collaborative projects on issues such as security, trade, and environmental challenges that both nations face.
Editor: Nayib Bukele’s administration has drawn attention both for its popularity and its controversial decisions. How might this honor impact his standing at home and abroad?
Dr. Rodriguez: Recognition from a neighboring country can bolster his popularity domestically by framing him as a leader who commands respect and acknowledgment beyond his borders. Internationally, it might position him favorably among other Central American leaders, encouraging a collective identity. However, it also runs the risk of intensifying criticism from those who disagree with his methods, particularly regarding his democratic practices.
Editor: That brings us to the broader implications of leadership styles within Central America. What lessons can we draw from Bukele’s rise and the reaction from neighboring countries like Costa Rica?
Dr. Rodriguez: Bukele’s rise underscores a shift towards populism in the region, attracting citizens who feel disenfranchised by traditional political structures. Neighboring countries must navigate this trend carefully; they might see the need for reforms of their own systems to better address the concerns of their citizens. Costa Rica’s decision to honor Bukele could also serve as a cautionary tale—what works in one country may not be applicable in another, especially when it comes to governance and democracy.
Editor: It seems that Central America is at a critical juncture. Before we conclude, do you foresee any potential challenges arising from this recognition of Bukele?
Dr. Rodriguez: Yes, there are several challenges. First, it might alienate segments of Costa Rican society that oppose Bukele’s approach. Additionally, it could impact Costa Rica’s relationship with allies critical of Bukele’s more authoritarian moves, especially regarding human rights. Costa Rica prides itself on its democratic values, so balancing this award with its national identity will be delicate.
Editor: Thank you for sharing your insights today, Dr. Rodriguez. It’s clear that the implications of this decoration extend far beyond a simple award, impacting both nations’ futures.
Dr. Rodriguez: Thank you for having me! It’s always a pleasure to discuss such important issues.
Editor: And thank you to our audience for tuning in. Stay informed, and we’ll see you next time on Time.news!