President Nayib Bukele launched a new phase to combat gangs, asserting that El Salvador is now the safest country in Latin America.
On Independence Day, he launched “Integration,” the sixth phase of the Territorial Control Plan.
Alejandro Gutman will lead the new National Integration Directorate. Gutman has over 20 years of experience helping poor communities.
The focus will now shift to digital skills and reducing the digital divide. Bukele believes technology is important for society and the economy.
He highlighted the removal of “invisible borders” set by gangs. Gangs like MS-13 and Barrio 18 had made certain areas fatal to enter.
Bukele says most security risks are now under control. However, mental barriers still exist due to past violence.
The president spoke of other progress in education, health, and economy. He urged citizens to keep working for a better El Salvador.
The plan was first revealed right after Bukele took office in June 2019. Its earlier phases aimed to combat gangs and liberate communities.
It also focused on ending extortion, commonly known as “the rent.”
Gang Control El Salvador Background
El Salvador has struggled with gang violence for decades. Gangs like MS-13 and Barrio 18 have roots in the U.S. but grew in El Salvador.
The 12-year civil war that ended in 1992 also played a role. Many young people joined gangs in the absence of other opportunities.
Previous governments tried different strategies, including harsh crackdowns. But these policies often backfired, leading to more violence and prison overcrowding.
Discurso a la Nación en el Día de Nuestra Independencia 🇸🇻
Address to the Nation on the Day of Our Independence 🇸🇻
https://t.co/Zg8PBNEkxA— Nayib Bukele (@nayibbukele) September 16, 2023
Nayib Bukele, elected in 2019, brought a new approach. His Territorial Control Plan focuses on reclaiming gang-controlled areas.
It also aims to improve local services and provide more opportunities. Education and job training are parts of this holistic model.
However, critics question the lack of transparency and potential for abuse. The public is waiting to see if this new phase brings lasting change.