"Excellent film...Certain to stimulate discussion on policy choices regarding military spending and human security." Dr. JoAnn Aviel, Prof, International Relations, San Francisco State

In 1948, Costa Rica dismantled their military establishment and intentionally cultivated security relationships with other nations through treaties, international laws, and international organizations. Free of the burden of military spending, they used the financial savings to invest in their people, creating strong public institutions including public higher education and universal health care. In short, Costa Ricans created a society committed to peace, solidarity, and international law. They have survived with safety and relative prosperity for nearly 70 years without a standing army.

A BOLD PEACE details the events which shook the country to its foundations, culminating in the 1948 civil war and the decision to abolish the military. Over the decades, the Costa Rican model has survived several serious crises, but the current threats may be the most formidable of all.



Grade Level: 7 - 12, College, Adults
US Release Date: 2017     Copyright Date: 2017
DVD ISBN: 1-941545-80-7

Reviews "This is a story that every American with a political pulse should know." Veterans for Peace, Spokane, Washington "A fascinating documentary...Tells the remarkable story of war avoided, or transcended, again and again and again...By the film's end, this way emerges not simply as possible, not simply as a curiosity, but as the model for the future." Robert Koehler, Huffington Post "One of the most enlightening films of our times." Leon Stuparich, Huffington Post "A Bold Peace captures the spirit of my father and the soul of my country." Christiana Figueres, former Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) "A Bold Peace should be given every possible means of support."