Compared to other Latin American countries, Costa Rica has good indicators of economic growth and social development. However, social inequality and spatial disparities are growing.

A part of the rural population of Costa Rica feels left behind by the changes, and has lost confidence in the political system. This is jeopardizing the country�s governance.

This paper proposes a certificate for small-scale family agriculture as an instrument for promoting social and territorial cohesion. This would help family agriculture compete with imports and ensure good sales levels and attractive prices.