Citizens' Action Party (Costa Rica)

The Citizens' Action Party (Spanish: Partido Acción Ciudadana, PAC) is a political party in Costa Rica. Founded in 2000, it emerged as a significant force in Costa Rican politics by challenging the dominance of the traditional two-party system represented by the Social Christian Unity Party (PUSC) and the National Liberation Party (PLN).

The PAC was established in response to perceived corruption and clientelism within the established political order. Its platform generally emphasizes good governance, transparency, environmental protection, social justice, and sustainable development. The party's ideology is typically described as center-left.

Ottón Solís Fallas, a prominent figure in the party's early years, ran as the PAC's presidential candidate in 2002, 2006, and 2014, achieving increasing success over time. The party first gained significant national representation in the 2002 legislative elections.

Luis Guillermo Solís, also of the PAC, won the 2014 presidential election in a landslide victory against Johnny Araya Monge of the PLN, marking a historic shift in Costa Rican politics. The PAC government faced significant challenges, including fiscal deficits and infrastructure issues.

Carlos Alvarado Quesada, the PAC's candidate, won the 2018 presidential election, defeating Fabricio Alvarado Muñoz of the National Restoration Party (PRN). Alvarado's term was marked by efforts to address the country's fiscal situation and promote progressive policies.

Following the 2022 elections, the PAC's representation in the Legislative Assembly was significantly reduced, and the party faced a period of internal reflection and reorganization after two consecutive terms in the presidency.