Tough-on-Crime Leader Elected in Costa Rica Amid Surging Violence and Rising Populism

Laura Fernández, a tough-on-crime conservative populist, has been elected as Costa Rica's next president, marking the latest victory for right-leaning leaders in Latin America amidst rising crime rates and concerns about security. Preliminary results show her leading the pack, but election officials have yet to confirm the outcome. Her win comes as violence surges in the country, with some fearing that Fernández's policies may exacerbate the issue. The conservative leader promises to tackle high levels of crime and restore stability in Costa Rica.