When speaking to a Costa Rican newspaper recently, President Oscar Arias, stated that even though, when reelected, he had promised to concentrate on domestic issues, he will continue to campaign against foreign spending on military and arms. He said that the globe as a whole spend in excess of $1 Trillion on military and arms, with the United States accounting for more than half that!

He continued by questioning the reasoning behind it, why spend such staggeringly large amounts of money on something that can be seen as immoral, incomprehensible and completely irrational, when the money could be better used to help combat poverty, increase the standard health, education and protecting the environment around the world.

When contemplated, it does seem as though he has a valid point, whilst it would not be feasible to totally abolish every army around the globe, less money could be spent, whilst still maintaining adequate protection against any threats. The money saved could then be used in places where it is needed, to help save lives, rather than prepare people to take them.

Arias also went on to say that his campaigning is not only about trying to reduce spending on war and the military, but also about increasing the reputation of Costa Rica around the world. Making it more attractive to investors and overall gain more respect from other nations. All of this will help to enhance our country he said, and everyone hopes that he is right.

This week legislators are still waiting for a decision on their proposal to fast track the controversial Central American Free Trade Agreement with the United States, to a vote and have a decision made at long last. However, as there has been since the announcement of CAFTA, many protest groups began to build momentum again, with numerous press conferences, bold and well thought out statements were being made, as well as new anti-CAFTA groups being launched to strengthen the opposition.

The national coordinator of the fight against CAFTA is building the efforts of many, including telecom and insurance workers, teachers, farmers, fishermen, Civil War veterans and even exporters who oppose the agreement, and has now put down plans for an anti CAFTA march through downtown San Jose on 26th February. Some people are skeptical as to what another march can achieve, but the objectors to this 'unfair competition' agreement as some are putting, are running out of ideas as to what else they can do to get their voices heard.