El Salvador’s Legislative Assembly has approved the thirtieth extension of the Exceptional Regime, ensuring its continuation until October 7, 2024. This decision underscores the nation’s commitment to maintaining its dramatic security improvements, largely attributed to President Nayib Bukele’s state of emergency measures.
The Exceptional Regime has played a pivotal role in transforming El Salvador from a country once known as the “world’s murder capital” to one of the safest nations in the Western Hemisphere. Since the regime’s implementation, along with the Territorial Control Plan, El Salvador has achieved 581 consecutive days without homicides and 694 days without violent deaths under Bukele’s administration.
The measure’s effectiveness is also reflected in substantial law enforcement successes. Authorities have captured 81,945 gang members and seized 4,308 firearms, 9,409 vehicles, and 21,044 cell phones. The homicide rate has plummeted to 2.1 per 100,000 inhabitants, lower than Canada’s rate of 2.24 per 100,000 in 2023.
President Bukele took to his X account to celebrate these achievements, stating, “From the world’s murder capital to the safest country in the Western Hemisphere¨. His remarks highlight the significant progress made in improving public safety and reducing crime rates.
Legislative Assembly President Ernesto Castro echoed this sentiment, praising the regime’s impact. “The state of emergency measures have been crucial in achieving these security milestones,” Castro said. “It’s important to recognize how these measures have transformed El Salvador and restored peace and safety to our communities.”
With this latest extension, El Salvador reaffirms its dedication to ensuring the ongoing security of its citizens, reflecting the continued success of President Bukele’s strategic measures in combating gang violence and improving overall safety.