Prominent Human Rights Group Evacuates El Salvador Amid Threats

Cristosal, a notable human rights organization in El Salvador, has disbanded its operations due to severe threats and harassment.

Cristosal, a leading human rights organization in El Salvador, has officially shuttered its offices and relocated its staff to nearby countries in response to growing threats and harassment from authorities, according to director Noah Bullock. The group has extensively documented incidents of torture and systemic abuses under President Nayib Bukele, particularly following a state of emergency that began in 2022 aimed at eradicating gang activity.

"The closure of Cristosal in El Salvador signifies a worrying development," commented Juanita Goebertus, Americas director at Human Rights Watch, emphasizing the chilling environment for those who dare to challenge government abuses. Attempts to solicit official responses from the Salvadoran government were met with silence.

In a disturbing turn of events, Ruth López, Cristosal's anti-corruption head, was arrested earlier this year and remains behind bars. Soon after, another lawyer, Enrique Anaya, who criticized the government's actions and referred to Bukele as a dictator, also faced detention—a title the president seemingly embraced during a recent speech.

Bullock expressed concerns over the increased surveillance and intimidation tactics employed against his team, calling it a new “wave of repression.” This escalation in hostility comes at a time when Bukele has strengthened ties with the United States following agreements regarding the treatment of deported migrants, with U.S. officials previously highlighting human rights concerns under his administration. Meanwhile, the Trump administration has refrained from commenting on these alarming arrests, in contrast to responses from European leaders expressing concern.