School attendance is free and mandatory since 1869. Ten percent of Costa Rica's GNP is devoted to health care. Benefits from education, preventive medicine and social security are at the level of many developed countries. Life expectancy is 75.2 years. They are said to repel violence of any kind.
Democracy is a national institution treasured by every citizen, regardless of wealth and status.
Such efforts to keep a stable political environment earned good reputation to this country, and in reply the international community has helped Costa Rica out every time external conflicts arise. Once again, when Arias began working towards achieving peace among Central American nations, world's attention turned to Costa Rica. The first meeting held by the five presidents of the region was Arias' first achievement. History can only have justice as its soul. The 1987 Nobel Peace Price presentation highlights Arias' work for peace, and a nation's tradition on democracy and justice.