On February 15, 2024, CLAS hosted the third LAC Moments of the academic year featuring Carlos Dada, Monica de Bolle, and Manuel Melendez in a discussion concerning the current situation in El Salvador following President Nayib Bukele’s re-election. Panelists considered issues of democracy, human rights, economics, and security in their conversation, discussing Bukele’s continued popularity in the face of concerns about eroding democratic norms and the administration’s aggressive stance against gangs. Panelists discussed domestic security as the ‘door’ through which Bukele entered the presidency, contrasting that focus with his larger goals as his time as president extends another term. The panelists noted the importance of monitoring evolution in the international community’s response, the strength of the domestic opposition, and the organizational capacity of the current administration. CLAS thanks the panelists, and all who attended and contributed to an engaging and fruitful discussion.
