Democracy Under Pressure: Thousands gathered in San José and across Costa Rica for a “Plantón por la Democracia” sit-in, backing judicial independence amid a widening clash between the Executive and the Judiciary over Constitutional Court judge appointments and term extensions. UN Leadership Watch: Costa Rican diplomat Rebeca Grynspan is leading the race to become the first woman UN secretary-general after an initial Security Council straw poll, with seven candidates competing and a final decision expected in October. Cost of Living: Costa Rica’s consumer prices fell again in July, keeping negative year-over-year inflation going for 15 straight months, with drops in transport, food, and travel. Health Alert: The Ministry of Health confirmed 14 hepatitis A cases tied to contamination concerns in affected water systems, with intensified surveillance and water testing. Wildlife & Enforcement: OIJ seized axolotls, turtles, and related equipment in an exotic wildlife trafficking probe in Paso Ancho. Environment & Farming: A new nocturnal “coffee frog” species was discovered in San Lorenzo de Tarrazu, but researchers warn pesticides could threaten its habitat. Sports: Costa Rica’s U-20 team advanced in the Concacaf Championship but Haiti’s hopes ended after a penalty shootout loss to Costa Rica. International Spotlight: The Trump administration revoked visas of senior officials from Brazil, Argentina, and Costa Rica, citing governance and corruption concerns.