In a statement made on Thursday, Bullock highlighted the worrying trend of repression, citing that employees had been subjected to police surveillance, especially during nighttime. The closure draws attention to an increasingly dangerous climate for those denouncing human rights violations within the country. “Cristosal’s closure in El Salvador marks a dangerous turning point,” commented Juanita Goebertus from Human Rights Watch, emphasizing the chilling implications for victims of abuse and civil society.
Cristosal has been central in documenting abuses committed since the imposition of a state of emergency in 2022 aimed at eradicating gang violence, and it is also known for investigating corruption within Bukele's government. The closure comes on the heels of the imprisonment of Ruth López, Cristosal's anti-corruption director, alongside the detention of other lawyers who have voiced opposition to the administration.
The escalation of harassment aligns with Bukele's increased ties with the United States, particularly following agreements related to migrant deportation. This has drawn scrutiny, particularly as the U.S. administration under Joe Biden has criticized human rights issues in El Salvador. However, the previous administration had remained notably reticent regarding such developments, even as European leaders have highlighted concerns.
Cristosal's absence signals a worrying shift in the human rights landscape in El Salvador, leaving behind a void in the ongoing fight against impunity and the protection of civil liberties.
Cristosal has been central in documenting abuses committed since the imposition of a state of emergency in 2022 aimed at eradicating gang violence, and it is also known for investigating corruption within Bukele's government. The closure comes on the heels of the imprisonment of Ruth López, Cristosal's anti-corruption director, alongside the detention of other lawyers who have voiced opposition to the administration.
The escalation of harassment aligns with Bukele's increased ties with the United States, particularly following agreements related to migrant deportation. This has drawn scrutiny, particularly as the U.S. administration under Joe Biden has criticized human rights issues in El Salvador. However, the previous administration had remained notably reticent regarding such developments, even as European leaders have highlighted concerns.
Cristosal's absence signals a worrying shift in the human rights landscape in El Salvador, leaving behind a void in the ongoing fight against impunity and the protection of civil liberties.
