El Salvador
Freedom at a Glance
Global Freedom
53 / 100
Partly Free
Elections in El Salvador are largely credible and free. However, widespread corruption undermines democracy and the rule of law, and lack of physical security remains a grave problem.
Research & Recommendations
El Salvador
Partly Free
53
100
| PR Political Rights | 21 40 |
| CL Civil Liberties | 32 60 |
Last Year's Score & Status
56
100
Partly Free
Global freedom statuses are calculated on a weighted scale.
See the methodology.
Overview
Past elections in El Salvador have been largely credible and free. However, widespread corruption undermines democracy and the rule of law, while the executive has concentrated control over the legislature, judiciary, and oversight institutions. Authorities maintain a harsh, militarized response to the country’s powerful gangs, resulting in extrajudicial killings, mass arbitrary arrests, and other abuses. Members of the active civil society sector and dynamic press risk harassment and violence in connection with their coverage of organized crime, corruption, and criticism of government policy.
Freedom in the World 2024 Policy Recommendations
Provide steady support and flexible funding to those on the front lines of the struggle against tyranny.
Democratic governments and donors must increase and sustain support for those working to defend and promote fundamental freedoms around the world. Failure to do so emboldens autocrats and can result in the loss of hard-won progress.
Uphold the rights of people living in disputed territories.
The events of the past year in places such as Nagorno-Karabakh and the Gaza Strip provided stark evidence that populations without self-determination are at greater risk of extreme human rights abuses or atrocities.
Protect free and fair elections in 2024.
At least 40 countries are holding national-level elections in 2024, and many more will conduct other types of balloting. Free and fair elections are a cornerstone of any democracy, and independent and transparent electoral processes are necessary to foster genuine competition and public trust.
News and Updates
Freedom House Perspectives
News Releases & Media Coverage
Country Facts
Basic Facts
Global Freedom Score
53
/ 100
Partly Free
Population: 6,336,000
Internet Facts
Status
Not Tracked
Election Facts
Status
Past Election
Date of Election
February 28, 2021
Type of Election
Legislative
Internet Penetration
46.41%
Election Year
2021
Vulnerability Index
73
/ 100
Transnational Repression
Status
Not Tracked