President Nayib Bukele's aggressive anti-gang measures have drastically reduced crime rates in El Salvador but at significant human rights costs.
Bukele's alignment with far-right politics and cooperation with the U.S. raises concerns about his authoritarian governance and potential repercussions.
Deep dives
El Salvador's Crime Transformation
El Salvador has undergone a significant transformation in its crime rate, largely due to the government’s aggressive approach to gang violence under President Nayib Bukele. The murder rate has dropped dramatically, turning the once notoriously dangerous nation into one of relative safety, allowing families to enjoy public spaces again. This success is attributed to the government's mass incarceration program, which has seen around 85,000 people detained under vague charges, leading to a decline in gang activities such as extortion and murder. Bukele defends these extreme measures by arguing that the ends justify the means, claiming that he has liberated millions from the grip of gang violence.
Human Rights Concerns and Governance
The aggressive tactics employed by Bukele's government have raised serious human rights concerns, prompting criticism from various organizations. The state of emergency declared in 2022 has been extended over 30 times, effectively centralizing power and diminishing the rule of law in El Salvador. Critics highlight a culture of fear, as many citizens are apprehensive about openly criticizing the president due to the potential for arbitrary detention without due process. The governing style has drawn comparisons to authoritarian regimes, especially as Bukele displays little tolerance for dissent and has altered the political landscape to consolidate power.
International Connections and Political Risks
Bukele's cooperation with the U.S. under the Trump administration has elevated his profile internationally, particularly among far-right supporters. He has positioned El Salvador as a potential destination for detaining deported migrants and alleged criminals from the U.S., fostering fears among immigrant communities. Despite his popularity at home, there are significant risks associated with this alignment, as shifting political tides in the U.S. could lead to increased scrutiny or condemnation of Bukele’s human rights record. Moreover, allegations of corruption and political retribution against former allies further complicate the country's stability and Bukele's future in power.
Gideon talks to the FT’s Michael Stott about Nayib Bukele, president of El Salvador, whose friendship with Donald Trump has been in the spotlight over his willingness to imprison US deportees, notably Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia. Clip: The White House
