In a milestone achievement for the region, the government of El Salvador has reported six uninterrupted years—since June 1, 2019—without riots, massacres, or gang dominance inside its prison system. This outcome, widely attributed to President Nayib Bukele’s security policies, reinforces his February 2024 declaration that “El Salvador now has the best prison system in the world.”
The transformation is largely credited to the Territorial Control Plan, which dismantled decades of systemic corruption and reversed the privileges historically granted to criminal groups. Measures included revoking inmates’ access to internet, mobile communication, gang-based cell allocations, and the inflow of drugs and contraband. As a result, state control over prisons has been firmly re-established—an achievement acknowledged internationally by nations like the United States, Argentina, Ecuador, and the Dominican Republic.
This stark contrast is evident when compared to prior administrations. During the ARENA and FMLN governments, deadly riots were common, including the 2004 massacre at La Esperanza (Mariona) prison that left 30 dead and over 20 injured. In 2002, two police officers were taken hostage and killed inside the same facility. Escapes went largely unreported—up to 56 cases per year.
Scandals further plagued the so-called “gang truce” years under ex-president Mauricio Funes, with scenes of impunity such as mobile disco parties, the presence of sex workers, and luxury amenities within penitentiaries. A 2015 raid on the Gotera prison unearthed 40 plasma TVs, gaming consoles, drugs, and 45 mobile phones—all in a single facility.
A Productive and Self-Sustaining Prison Model
President Bukele’s administration has not only restored order but also introduced the Zero Idle Plan, targeting inmate rehabilitation through technical and vocational training. More than 24,000 non-gang-affiliated inmates in the “trust phase” are now engaged in 24-hour productivity workshops, acquiring valuable skills while contributing to national development.
At the heart of this model lies the prison textile maquila, where 6,600 inmates produce 600,000 garments monthly, including over 188,000 medical uniforms and masks. Additional output includes more than 114,000 sports uniforms for INDES programs, 18,000 school uniforms, and 9,000 for military personnel. Meanwhile, 6,300 inmates in shoe workshops manufacture 150,000 pairs monthly for students and essential government staff.
Another 2,400 inmates craft over 70,000 pieces of furniture annually for public schools and early childhood centers. More than 7,000 contribute directly to national infrastructure by helping construct and maintain hospitals, schools, police stations, and housing, while also restoring historical landmarks such as the National Palace.
Inmates also participate in agricultural and industrial programs. At the Penitentiary Farm, 800 inmates manage crops, poultry, and livestock, ensuring food self-sufficiency with the production of nearly 50,000 eggs daily from over 44,000 hens. Others build mesh houses for integrated farming and irrigation.
Technical teams of 1,200 inmates repair appliances and industrial machinery for public institutions. An additional 900 service vehicles for the healthcare and prison systems, having already restored over 2,100 police patrols and motorcycles.
Creative outlets include workshops for painting, pottery, upholstery, and detergent production. In 2024 alone, over 21,500 inmates received certified training in diverse fields. Since Bukele’s first term began, more than 37,000 individuals have completed rehabilitation-focused programs.
A New Era for Public Safety and Rehabilitation
The Bukele model stands as a powerful example of what comprehensive reform, technological control, and strong political will can accomplish. As El Salvador continues to break records in public security and criminal justice reform, its prison system is no longer a symbol of chaos, but one of discipline, rehabilitation, and productivity—a model now under global scrutiny and admiration.
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