A serious attack on justice, democracy and human rights in El Salvador

The Steering Committee of the Latin American Council of Social Sciences and the Member Centers of Central America, in light of what happened on May 1, 2021 in the Salvadoran Legislative Assembly, express:

Total rejection of the dismissal of the magistrate and magistrates of the Constitutional Chamber of the Supreme Court of Justice and the Attorney General of the Republic through a procedure that disrespects democratic institutions and blocks forms of dialogue and understanding by annulling dissenting opinions.

This situation constitutes a serious attack on justice, democracy and human rights, which, with difficulties and the sacrifice of thousands of people, were achieved after the armed conflict, which ended with the peace agreements of 1992.

The authoritarianism and dictatorial forms displayed are contrary to any democratization process that requires limits between powers, and checks and balances to govern legally and legitimately, so it is essential that the mechanisms of dialogue and understanding between rulers and citizens be opened, respected and maintained.

We call for the restoration of institutional order, in full compliance with the provisions of the Constitution of El Salvador, with justice and transparency, and respecting the human rights of all people.

We cannot allow fear, uncertainty, and the closing of spaces to prevail in our countries, so we join every action and initiative that is in favor of justice, peace, truth, the rule of law, and democracy.

May 3th 2021