In a recent survey conducted by the University Institute of Public Opinion (IUDOP) of the José Simeón Cañas Central American University (UCA), President Nayib Bukele of El Salvador has been awarded an impressive rating of 8.68 for his second year in office under the Exception Regime. This constitutional measure, aimed at bolstering the National Territorial Control Plan (PCT), has garnered widespread support among Salvadorans, with a significant 69.1% expressing favor for its extension.
Implemented since March 27, 2022, the Exception Regime has yielded remarkable results in enhancing security across the nation. The survey highlights the capture of over 79,000 gang members and the reclamation of territories once controlled by these criminal groups. Consequently, communities now thrive in peace and tranquility, with citizens enjoying improved security and unhindered movement.
Omar Serrano, the UCA’s Vice-Rector for Social Projection, emphasized the growing approval of the Exception Regime over time, as reflected in the survey findings. While only 29% of respondents advocated for alternative measures against gangs, the overwhelming sentiment is in favor of continuing the current approach until the last gang member is apprehended.
The success of the National Territorial Control Plan coupled with the Exception Regime has led to a historic reduction in El Salvador’s homicide rate. With just 2.4 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants last year, the country emerged as the safest in Latin America. Impressively, the rate further plummeted to 1.5 in the first quarter of this year, cementing El Salvador’s position as the continent’s safest nation.
Furthermore, the survey indicates that Salvadorans have shifted their primary concerns away from crime and insecurity, with the economy, unemployment, and the high cost of living now topping the list of national issues. This shift underscores President Bukele’s multifaceted approach to governance, addressing not only security concerns but also socioeconomic challenges.
A staggering 87.5% of respondents expressed feeling safer due to the implementation of the Exception Regime. They cited the absence of gang presence, restored peace, an end to extortion, and improved commercial activity as key factors contributing to their sense of security.
As El Salvador celebrates two years of the Exception Regime, President Bukele’s leadership continues to enjoy strong public support, buoyed by tangible improvements in national security and well-being.
