Foreign Minister Xavier Bettel, representing the European Union on a working visit to El Salvador, has acknowledged the country's improved security while cautioning that its state of emergency "cannot become the rule".
During a working visit to Latin and Central America, Minister of Foreign Affairs Xavier Bettel has addressed the complex situation in El Salvador, where he is also acting as a representative for the EU's chief diplomat, Kaja Kallas. His itinerary also includes stops in Colombia, Guatemala, and Costa Rica.
Minister Bettel acknowledged the security improvements under President Nayib Bukele, who took office in 2019. The country, once plagued by powerful gangs and high murder rates, has seen a drop in violence. "El Salvador was a dangerous place that has become less dangerous today", Bettel stated from the capital.
This transformation was achieved through a state of emergency, which suspended certain constitutional rights and led to the arrest of tens of thousands of alleged gang members. However, Bettel issued a clear warning against making such measures permanent. "It cannot be that emergency restrictions and emergency measures effectively become the rule", he emphasised.
The Minister's comments align with criticisms from human rights organisations, which report that detainees have been stripped of basic rights. Bettel argued that an "exit strategy" from the state of emergency is crucial, not only for humanitarian reasons but also for long-term economic stability.
"Investors also need legal certainty that the judiciary is functioning correctly, so it is important for all of us that when progress is made, it is not just at the expense of human rights and the rule of law", he noted.
Despite being democratically elected, President Bukele has taken steps to consolidate power, including extending his term. Bettel stated that his discussions with Salvadoran officials, held on behalf of the EU, were "open and honest".
