In a striking report titled “Critics Denounce That Their Government Is a Dictatorship, but These People Say They Have Never Felt So Free,” CNN explores the dramatic shift in El Salvador’s security landscape under President Nayib Bukele’s administration. Despite criticisms from human rights organizations and accusations of authoritarianism, the report reveals a contrasting narrative from the Salvadoran populace.
Once notorious for being the “murder capital of the world” with an average of one homicide per hour in early 2016, El Salvador has undergone a significant transformation. According to CNN, Salvadorans now experience a level of freedom and security previously unimaginable. The report emphasizes that while international critics highlight concerns about human rights and constitutional freedoms, many Salvadorans express unprecedented satisfaction with their safety.
American journalist David Culver’s extensive report captures the personal stories of Salvadorans who have returned to their homeland after years abroad, drawn by the improved security situation. Among them is Victor Bolaños, who, after 15 years in the United States, returned in 2018. Reflecting on the changes, Bolaños says, “We returned six years ago and everything was unsafe. When we returned, the situation seemed difficult because of the insecurity, but now one feels safe; in our country, one feels freedom.”
Similarly, Diego Morales, who left in 1997 due to rampant violence, has invested in a beach resort in Tamanique. Morales notes a surge in property values, attributing this rise to the enhanced security. “As soon as President Bukele brought security to this country, everything went up,” he states, highlighting a property’s value increase from $100,000 to ten times that amount.
CNN attributes this turnaround to Bukele’s stringent security measures, including a state of emergency imposed in March 2022. This has allowed the police to detain suspects without formal charges for 15 days and led to a substantial crackdown on gang activities, resulting in over 80,000 arrests.
Despite criticism that Salvadorans may have traded certain freedoms for safety, the report captures a palpable sense of optimism. CNN contrasts this with other repressive regimes, noting that Salvadorans appear genuinely hopeful and content with their newfound security.
The report also highlights the creation of the “Terrorist Confinement Center” (Cecot), which, as of early 2023, houses 14,000 gang members, underscoring the government’s aggressive stance on gang violence.
In essence, while debates about civil liberties continue, CNN’s findings reflect a significant shift in public perception within El Salvador, where safety and a renewed sense of freedom have become central to the national narrative.