Rising Concerns in El Salvador: Missing Persons and Human Rights Under Bukele's Rule

El Salvador faces increasing concerns as a report indicates one person goes missing each day. Despite the government's claim of improved security under President Nayib Bukele, human rights organizations report an almost 10% rise in missing persons this year. NGOs launched an online portal for tracking and supporting victims' families.

El Salvador is facing rising concerns with one person going missing each day, as reported by a coalition of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) using data from the attorney general's office. The report revealed that 366 people went missing in the past year, marking a near 10% increase from previous estimates.

Under President Nayib Bukele, the government boasts of over 650 days without homicides and has implemented tough measures, including a state-of-exception and mass trials. Bukele's security policies have garnered him widespread popularity, leading to his re-election with 85% of the vote.

However, human rights groups highlight serious concerns, such as deaths in custody and the arbitrary detention of children. The Working Group for Missing Persons in El Salvador has created an online portal to help track and support missing persons, stressing that this initiative should complement, not replace, official government efforts. Government officials did not respond to requests for comments regarding the missing persons issue.

(With inputs from agencies.)