E/C.12/CRI/CO/5

Costa Rica (CESCR 21-10-2016)

The Committee considered the fifth periodic report of Costa Rica (E/C.12/CRI/5) at its 51st and 52nd meetings (see E/C.12/SR.51 and 52), held on 19 and 20 September 2016. It adopted the present concluding observations at its 79th meeting, held on 7 October 2016.

Concluding observations

C. Principal Subjects of concern and recommendations

Discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity

20. While the Committee takes note of the various steps taken to combat discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity, it is concerned that lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons continue to experience discrimination. It is also concerned that the absence of legal recognition of their gender identity is a barrier to transgender persons having effective access to work, education and health services (art. 2).
21. The Committee recommends that the State party adopt a policy that comprehensively addresses discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity. The Committee also recommends that the State party take the necessary legislative and administrative measures to recognize the rights of same-sex couples and to ensure that transgender persons have effective access to economic, social and cultural rights.