Human rights groups and political experts are sounding alarms over a new law passed by El Salvador’s Congress, which many see as a tool for censorship aimed at silencing dissent. The law, pushed by President Nayib Bukele, was passed quickly on a Tuesday night by a Congress dominated by his New Ideas party, bypassing the usual legislative process.
This controversial law requires individuals and organizations, both local and foreign, that work with foreign entities or receive foreign funding to register with the government. It imposes a hefty 30-percent tax on all payments made to these groups, with no clear guidelines on how the tax revenue will be used.
Critics argue that the law’s broad definition of a "foreign agent" could affect a wide range of organizations, including human rights groups, independent media, and religious organizations. El Salvador has about 8,000 NGOs that often rely on international donations due to limited local funding.
The law also establishes a new government body called the Registry of Foreign Agents (RAEX), which will have significant power. RAEX will decide who can operate in the country, approve or deny registration applications, and demand information from NGOs at any time. This raises concerns about the government’s increasing control over civil society.
Bukele claims the law aims to reduce foreign influence and corruption. However, many see it as part of a broader trend of crackdowns on dissent in El Salvador, similar to actions taken by governments in Nicaragua, Venezuela, and Russia. Critics point out that Bukele has been consolidating power, and this law follows a series of actions that have stifled opposition voices.
Just days before the law passed, police arrested an anticorruption lawyer who works with a prominent human rights organization. Additionally, journalists from El Faro reported they had to flee the country due to threats of arrest after investigating Bukele’s ties to gangs.
Opposition lawmakers have called the law an authoritarian measure that gives Bukele excessive control over dissenting voices. They argue it will only benefit groups that align with the government, while punishing those that speak out against corruption or abuse.
This law raises serious questions about freedom of expression and the rights of organizations that play a crucial role in advocating for marginalized communities in El Salvador. As the government tightens its grip, many are left wondering what this will mean for the future of civic engagement in the country.