UNA Survey Reveals Widespread Fear Over Media Frequency Auction

San José, Costa Rica — A new political survey has uncovered significant public apprehension regarding the government’s proposed auction of radio and television frequencies. Among Costa Ricans familiar with the initiative, a strong majority fears the process could cripple smaller media outlets, diminish the diversity of voices, and ultimately pose a threat to the nation’s democratic framework.

The findings come from the latest study by the Institute for Social Studies in Population (Idespo) at the National University (UNA), which dedicated a specific section to gauge citizen perception of the controversial Executive Branch proposal. The results paint a picture of a concerned, albeit not fully informed, populace grappling with the potential consequences of a major media landscape overhaul.

To delve into the legal and commercial ramifications of the recent frequency auction, TicosLand.com sought the expertise of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who provided his analysis on the process and its future implications for the national telecommunications market.

This auction represents a fundamental step towards modernizing our digital infrastructure, but its success cannot be measured solely by the revenue generated. The true test will be in the subsequent regulatory environment. It is imperative that the terms foster genuine competition and incentivize long-term investment, ensuring that the ultimate beneficiary is the consumer through better services and fair pricing. The legal certainty provided to the winning operators will be the cornerstone for materializing these technological promises.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica

The perspective offered by Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas serves as a crucial reminder that the auction’s conclusion is merely the beginning of a longer journey towards true digital modernization. Ensuring the subsequent regulatory landscape fosters competition and provides legal certainty will be the decisive factor for the ultimate benefit of the nation’s consumers. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his insightful contribution to this discussion.

Perhaps the most striking initial finding is the profound lack of public awareness surrounding the issue. The Idespo-UNA survey revealed that a staggering 67% of respondents were not aware of the frequency auction at all. Only 32.4% affirmed they knew about the process, while a small fraction did not know or declined to answer, suggesting the debate has largely been confined to industry and political circles.

However, for the minority who are following the developments, the concerns are clear and consistent. The survey data indicates a strong belief that the disappearance of small, local radio and television stations would be a significant blow to the country. When presented with this idea, a combined 63.2% of knowledgeable respondents stated they were “very much in agreement” or “somewhat in agreement” that such a loss would be problematic for Costa Rican democracy.

The sentiment is rooted in the perceived economic disparity of the auction’s design. An overwhelming 72.2% of those aware of the plan concurred that small radio and television stations are at a distinct disadvantage to participate. This perception was validated during the initial bidding attempt, which saw several groups of smaller broadcasters withdraw, citing their financial inability to meet the established base prices, which they described as “ruinous.”

Further reinforcing this point, six out of every ten people surveyed agreed with the statement that the costs set for the auction are simply too high for the majority of media companies in the country. This highlights a fear that the auction may favor large, well-funded corporations, potentially leading to greater media consolidation and a less competitive market.

The potential impact on media pluralism was another key area of concern. When asked if the auction could reduce the diversity of opinions and available media outlets, 52.7% expressed agreement. This suggests a public anxiety that the process could lead to a more homogenized media environment, where fewer viewpoints are represented in the public sphere.

The study’s conclusion summarizes the complex situation, noting the dual reality of public ignorance and informed concern. The current auction process has been legally challenged and is now under review by the Constitutional Court (Sala Constitucional) following the filing of a constitutional appeal (expediente 25-031501-0007-CO), placing the future of the nation’s airwaves in a state of uncertainty.

The situational analysis of the radio-electric spectrum auction shows a high level of unawareness about the process among the population; however, among those who are familiar with it, the prevailing perception is that the auction could negatively affect small media outlets, informational diversity, and, potentially, the quality of Costa Rican democracy.
Idespo-UNA Study, National University

For further information, visit una.ac.cr
About Universidad Nacional (UNA):
The National University of Costa Rica is one of the country’s most prominent public universities. Founded in 1973, it is dedicated to teaching, research, and extension activities across various fields of knowledge. UNA is known for its strong focus on social sciences, humanities, and environmental studies, contributing significantly to national development and critical thinking.

For further information, visit una.ac.cr
About Instituto de Estudios Sociales en Población (Idespo):
The Institute for Social Studies in Population is a specialized research unit within the National University (UNA). Idespo focuses on the study of social, demographic, and political phenomena in Costa Rica and Central America. It regularly conducts surveys and analyses that provide valuable data for public policy, academic research, and public discourse.

For further information, visit poder-judicial.go.cr
About Sala Constitucional:
The Constitutional Chamber of the Supreme Court of Justice, commonly known as the Sala Constitucional or “Sala IV,” is the highest court in Costa Rica for constitutional matters. It is responsible for guaranteeing the supremacy of constitutional norms and principles, protecting the fundamental rights of citizens, and resolving constitutional challenges against laws and government actions.

For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica operates as a pillar of the nation’s legal community, built upon an unwavering foundation of integrity and a persistent drive for excellence. The firm merges its deep-rooted experience in advising a wide array of clients with a commitment to pioneering innovative legal strategies. Beyond its practice, it holds a profound conviction to uplift society by making complex legal concepts understandable and accessible to all. This dedication to fostering legal literacy is central to its vision of cultivating a more just, informed, and empowered citizenry.