U.S. Peace Corps volunteers return to El Salvador, signaling improved relations as gang violence declines under President Bukele.
U.S. Peace Corps volunteers are returning to El Salvador after a break since 2016 due to violence, marking a positive development that shows U.S.-El Salvador relations improving.
This also highlights the challenge of balancing security and human rights in El Salvador under President Nayib Bukele’s controversial rule.
Controversial for his aggressive fight against gang violence, Bukele has improved his image with a significant drop in crime, especially homicide rates.
His tough approach to fighting gangs has been criticized for human rights violations, leading to the detention of about 81,900 people, many of whom are believed to be innocent.
This has effectively reduced crime but has also caused concern among human rights groups.
The nine volunteers returning will work on key areas like improving the economy, education, and supporting youth, bringing experienced and skilled individuals back.
The focus is on continuing the strong partnership with El Salvador’s people.
The first US Peace Corps volunteers return to El Salvador since leaving in 2016 because of violence #Corps #El_Salvador #International #Peace #Peace_Corps #San_Salvador #US #Washington,_D.C. https://t.co/wJFWJz907P
— IdeallyaNews (@IdeallyaNews) September 28, 2024
Despite the challenges, including the highest homicide rate in 2015 at 106 per 100,000 people, the Peace Corps left in 2020 due to the crisis.
Since the start of his state of emergency in 2022, President Bukele has been highly successful in reducing gang violence.
However, his rule has faced criticism for unfair practices and human rights abuses, with reports of at least 261 prisoner deaths and over 7,000 detainees released due to lack of evidence, raising questions about justice and the rule of law.
Despite these issues, Bukele’s popularity has grown, and he’s been barred from running again by the constitution but is still seeking reelection.
The U.S. has shown support, despite concerns about constitutional issues and human rights.
