NGOs Launch Missing Persons Registry in El Salvador

A coalition of NGOs in El Salvador launched an online registry for missing persons on August 22, amid rising concerns that one individual goes missing daily during a severe crackdown on gangs initiated by President Nayib Bukele. Data from the attorney general's office indicates that 366 people have gone missing in the past year, reflecting a nearly 10% increase from previous estimates. While the government touts its success in reducing homicides, human rights organizations accuse it of arbitrary detentions and mass human rights abuses, with over 81,000 suspected gang members arrested. Bukele's security measures, including a state of emergency, have garnered him significant popularity, resulting in his re-election earlier this year. The NGOs hope the registry will standardize data and help families of the missing, emphasizing that it should enhance, not replace, government efforts in addressing this issue. Critics continue to challenge the government's transparency regarding missing persons and human rights violations.