El Salvador
Freedom at a Glance
Global Freedom
42 / 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
42
100
| PR Political Rights | 15 40 |
| CL Civil Liberties | 27 60 |
Last Year's Score & Status
47
100
Partly Free
A country or territory’s Freedom in the World status depends on its aggregate Political Rights score, on a scale of 0–40, and its aggregate Civil Liberties score, on a scale of 0–60.
See the methodology.
Overview
In 2024, Nayib Bukele won a second presidential term, having run despite a constitutional ban on presidents seeking two consecutive terms. 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 public security, 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 and corruption, and criticism of government policy.
Freedom in the World 2026 Policy Recommendations
Strengthen democratic coordination and collective action in a contested global order
Democratic resilience will increasingly depend on stronger coordination among countries that share a commitment to freedom, the rule of law, and accountable governance.
Reimagine international democracy assistance to help reverse the global decline in freedom
International support for democratic institutions, civil society, and independent media has been associated with modest but meaningful improvements in democratic governance, and it is far less costly than the military outlays necessitated by rising authoritarian aggression.
Prioritize engagement with younger generations in the digital spaces where civic identity is now formed
Young people are increasingly dissatisfied with democracy—not because they reject its principles, but because they see institutions failing to deliver on them. Programmatic work should create clear pathways for meaningful political participation, from voting and policy engagement to community organizing and public leadership, so that young people can translate their expectations into agency.
News and Updates
Freedom House Perspectives
News Releases & Media Coverage
Country Facts
Basic Facts
Freedom in the World Score
42
/ 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
