Who is the "world's coolest dictator" Nayib Bukele?
Apr 17, 2025
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Stuart Ramsay, Chief Correspondent at Sky News, delves into Nayib Bukele's controversial leadership style and his self-proclaimed title as the "world's coolest dictator." Ramsay discusses how Bukele managed to transform El Salvador from a violent hotspot to a burgeoning tourist destination, albeit through controversial methods. The podcast explores Bukele's consolidation of power and the erosion of civil liberties, alongside his effective use of social media for propaganda. It raises important questions about the future of democracy in El Salvador amidst this paradox of popularity.
Nayib Bukele's leadership has drastically reduced gang violence in El Salvador, transforming it into one of the safest countries in the region.
His controversial governing methods, including mass incarcerations and social media manipulation, raise concerns about the erosion of democratic principles.
Deep dives
Transformation of El Salvador Under Bukele
El Salvador has seen a dramatic shift from being labeled the murder capital of the world to one of the safest countries in the Western Hemisphere, largely attributed to President Nayib Bukele's leadership. His administration reportedly achieved this by cracking down on gang violence, which previously terrorized citizens and stifled business through rampant extortion and brutality. Bukele's policies have garnered him immense popularity, with domestic approval ratings reaching as high as 90%, as he has successfully imprisoned thousands of gang members while creating an image of a more peaceful country. The transformation includes the promotion of tourism, such as the beautiful landscapes and surfing spots, positioning El Salvador as an attractive destination for both tourists and investors.
Controversial Methods and Human Rights Concerns
Bukele's approach to reducing crime has sparked significant controversy due to methods that involve the suspension of civil liberties and the apparent circumvention of due process. Critics point to the mass incarceration of individuals, often without charge, as a violation of basic human rights, with estimates suggesting that one in 57 Salvadorans is imprisoned. The government's establishment of a state of emergency allowed law enforcement to detain suspected gang members with little oversight, stirring outcries from human rights activists and legal representatives. This authoritative stance has raised questions about the future of democracy in El Salvador, as the balance between security and civil rights appears to have shifted heavily in favor of security.
Bukele's Populism and Political Landscape
Bukele's leadership style draws parallels to other populist leaders, heavily utilizing social media to craft his image and rally support, while vilifying dissenters as enemies of the state. His administration has diminished opposition, effectively leading to a political climate characterized by a lack of choice and representation, with many viewing Bukele as a modern-day dictator. Although he was elected by a majority, the manner of his governance has raised alarms regarding the erosion of democratic principles, especially with controversial constitutional changes. Other leaders in Latin America are closely observing Bukele's model, as his approach to governance through a state of emergency is gaining traction as a potential solution to similar gang-related issues in the region.
El Salvador's president Nayib Bukele was welcomed into the White House by President Trump earlier this week. The pair have recently become close allies after Trump began sending Venezuelan immigrations to a prison in El Salvador.
On this Sky News Daily host Niall Paterson finds out who the self-proclaimed "world's coolest dictator" actually is. He speaks to chief correspondent Stuart Ramsay about what impact Bukele has had on El Salvador's gang problems and if he has transformed the country into a business and tourism haven.
He also hears from Dr Ainhoa Montoya author and senior researcher at the Spanish National Research Council, and founding director of the Centre for Latin American and Caribbean Studies at the University of London. She explains how Bukele secured his position of power and uses social media as a propaganda tool.
Producer: Soila Apparicio
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