AP News: Why El Salvador President Bukele’s foreign agents law is fueling democratic concerns
El Salvador’s recently enacted Foreign Agents Law, championed by President Nayib Bukele, has drawn significant criticism from human rights organizations, political analysts, and opposition figures. The law mandates that individuals or organizations receiving foreign support must register with a new governmental body, RAEX, and pay a 30% tax on all foreign contributions. Critics argue that the law’s vague language allows for broad interpretation and selective enforcement, potentially targeting organizations critical of the president. Noncompliance can lead to revocation of registrations, hefty fines, or closures. The law’s passage, bypassing normal legislative procedures, has intensified concerns about increasing authoritarian control in El Salvador .
This legislative move coincides with other controversial actions by Bukele’s administration. In March 2025, over 130 Venezuelan migrants were deported from the U.S. to El Salvador under the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, based on alleged gang affiliations. Many of these individuals had no criminal records and were detained in El Salvador’s CECOT prison, known for its harsh conditions. The deportations proceeded despite a U.S. federal judge’s temporary restraining order, raising legal and constitutional concerns .
Furthermore, Bukele has proposed a prisoner swap with Venezuela, suggesting the exchange of these Venezuelan deportees for political prisoners held by the Venezuelan government. This proposal has added another layer of complexity to the situation, intertwining domestic policies with international diplomatic maneuvers .
Collectively, these developments have raised alarms about the erosion of democratic norms and human rights in El Salvador, with critics drawing parallels to authoritarian regimes in the region.
