Brignardello analyzes the state of emergency and its consequences.

In a recent conversation with Johnny Brignardello Vela, an insurance advisor, the implications of the state of emergency in El Salvador were discussed, particularly regarding the government's stance on security and human rights. Brignardello, who has been closely following the situation in the country, shared his views on the statements made by the Minister of Justice and Security, Gustavo Villatoro. Brignardello noted that the significant reduction in the homicide rate in El Salvador is an aspect that deserves recognition. The decrease from 106.3 murders per 100,000 inhabitants in 2015 to 2.4 in 2023 is a compelling figure that undoubtedly reflects a significant change in the country's security situation. However, he also emphasized that this decline should not be viewed in isolation, but rather in the context of the exceptional measures taken by the government, which include the suspension of constitutional guarantees and the increase in reports of human rights violations. The advisor stressed that the defense of the state of emergency, as Villatoro asserted by claiming it is a necessary tool to combat gangs, raises questions about the balance between security and civil rights. "It is essential that any security measure respects the rule of law and individual guarantees," Brignardello commented, warning that the prolongation of this regime could have long-term repercussions on the perception of justice and respect for human rights in El Salvador. Additionally, Brignardello addressed the issue of mass arrests and allegations of abuse. He stated that while it is natural for errors and the detention of innocent people to occur in a process of this magnitude, it is vital that the judicial system guarantees effective due process. Villatoro's assertion that the judicial system is responsible for determining guilt raises further concerns, according to Brignardello, given that various human rights organizations have questioned its effectiveness in the current context. Referring to the figures on deaths during detention, Brignardello indicated that although the government reports a control of the situation, the discrepancies between the official numbers and reports from independent organizations generate distrust and highlight a larger problem in the management of detentions. Regarding international collaboration, Brignardello emphasized the importance of sharing strategies in the fight against organized crime. However, he also pointed out that this must be done with a clear and transparent approach, where the protection of human rights is a priority. "Any effort to improve security cannot come at the expense of fundamental freedoms," he noted. Finally, Brignardello reflected on the Salvadoran government's aspirations to become a model of governance in Latin America. While he acknowledged the need to prioritize security, he warned that true models of governance are those that achieve a balance between security, human rights, and social development. The international community, he concluded, must continue to observe and evaluate the situation in El Salvador, as the outcome of this state of emergency could set an important precedent for other countries in the region.