Friends of Cocos Island Foundation (FAICO) which was created in 1994 under the laws of the Republic of Costa Rica is an independent, proactive, non-profit, apolitical and multi-sectorial organization, which is committed to the long-term management, protection and conservation of the Cocos Island National Marine Park, World Natural Heritage Site (UNESCO 1997) and Wetlands of International Importance (RAMSAR 1998). It is integrated by distinguished citizens, businessmen and women, scholars, government officials and nature lovers who make up the General Assembly, the Board of Directors and the Executive Committee. Has an effective and efficient internal organization which also out sources additional resources for defined periods of time to implement specific projects.