Public policy in Costa Rica’s energy sector and citizen participation

Abstract

This article analyzes public policy in Costa Rica’s energy sector, focusing on citizen participation in its design and implementation. Theoretical frameworks are considered, emphasizing that a public policy of this nature must emerge from contextual analysis and actively involve all stakeholders who are affected or benefited. A social network analysis (SNA) reveals that institutions such as MINAE, ARESEP, and energy distribution companies play a central role in decision-making, while citizen participation remains very limited.