Opinions and Blogs

Latin America: Who wins and who loses after Trump’s victory?
On January 20, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump will assume office again and face familiar but evolving challenges in Latin America. Two of these challenges stand out. First, the decline of U.S. influence in the world. This tendency is confirmed in Latin America, where China and Russia are strengthening their foothold. China‘s investments in infrastructure, technology, and … Read more

El Salvador Makes History: Joining the Ranks of the World’s Safest Nations
El Salvador has made history by joining the ranks of the world’s safest nations for the first time. This remarkable achievement reflects the country’s progress in enhancing security and showcases a dedicated effort to reduce crime and protect its citizens. … Read more

Between Democracy and Authoritarianism in El Salvador: The Political Landscape Going Into the 2024 Elections
It is December, and Salvadorans are preparing to celebrate one of the most anticipated holidays of the year, Christmas. Usually, during these celebrations, most Salvadorans worry about what to do for the holidays and if they have enough money to survive the month. However, this year, there is an added element that most Salvadorans must contemplate going into 2024: the upcoming… Read more

The Menace of Extortion in El Salvador. Breaking the Chains of Shakedowns
Over the last 25 years, extortion in El Salvador has been a formidable and pervasive problem that has cast a shadow of fear and instability over many Salvadorans and businesses. The extortion problem executed by these criminal groups has had … Read more

Is it Legal to Grow Cannabis in El Salvador?
Is weed legal in El Salvador? The country’s 200 miles of coastline, numerous volcanoes, and Mayan ruins make it an ideal tourist destination. It’s the perfect location to experience the wonders of cannabis. Or is it? Whether you’re a weed … Read more

The Struggles of Living in Rural Areas of El Salvador
It is 4 a.m. in rural Ahuachapan in western El Salvador. Rogelio Campos, a worker on a private farm that grows corn and beans and raises cattle and pigs, has already been awake for 30 minutes, ready to start his working day. His wife Maria has been awake for longer. She makes the coffee and … Read more

Opinion: Can Salvadoran political parties ARENA and FMLN recover political ground in 2023?
Not long ago, ARENA and FMLN were the top political parties in El Salvador. From 1994 to 2019, the two political forces maintained control of all branches of government, judicial, executive, and legislative. They also controlled almost all municipal governments. … Read more