This episode explores the complex security and political landscape of El Salvador under President Nayib Bukele, featuring insights from expert José Salguero. We discuss the history of gang violence, the security policies implemented, and the implications for democracy and regional influence.

Nayib Bukele's rise to power was marked by promises of security and stability. However, as Salguero points out, the current security situation cannot be attributed solely to Bukele's policies. Instead, it is a culmination of various factors, including previous government actions and historical trends.

Looking ahead, the question remains: will El Salvador ever exit this state of exception? Salguero suggests that the historical context reveals a pattern in which authoritarian regimes maintain power by manipulating public fear and securing compliance through promises of stability.

Hailing from El Salvador, José Salguero is a PhD candidate at the Philipps University of Marburg, a Development Economist and Peace and Security Researcher.

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