The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) urged El Salvador on Friday to repeal its newly enacted “foreign agents” law, calling it a direct threat to press freedom and civil society. The law, approved on May 20 by the Legislative Assembly dominated by President Nayib Bukele’s party, requires organizations and individuals receiving international funding to register with the Ministry of Interior and imposes a 30 percent tax on such funds. It also grants the government sweeping authority to monitor, fine, or shut down those who fail to comply.
Journalists and legal experts have expressed concern that the law’s vague and broad language allows authorities to arbitrarily classify anyone receiving foreign support as a foreign agent. This could impact freelance reporters, trainers, and nonprofit workers, who risk being labeled as hostile actors simply for engaging in international partnerships.
The measure has drawn sharp comparisons to authoritarian regimes, where similar laws have been used to suppress dissent. According to Human Rights Watch, El Salvador’s law could be used to target civil society groups and independent media, especially those exposing corruption or government misconduct. The organization also warned that this legal framework violates the country’s obligations under international law.
Supporters from the ruling party argued that the law is necessary for transparency and national sovereignty. However, critics believe it is part of a broader campaign to silence dissent and marginalize organizations that question or challenge the government. Opposition lawmakers and journalists have pointed out that similar rhetoric has been used in the past to discredit NGOs and international donors.
The passage of this law takes place in an increasingly hostile environment for civic freedoms. Human rights advocates have also raised concerns about El Salvador’s treatment of asylum seekers, highlighting how the country’s deteriorating rights conditions are affecting not only citizens, but also vulnerable migrants being deported to El Salvador from other countries.
Observers say the new law aligns with Bukele’s broader efforts to consolidate power. Over the past few years, he has repeatedly framed foreign-funded organizations as tools of foreign influence that interfere with national sovereignty. With this legislation, critics argue that these accusations have now been codified into law.
In response to the mounting backlash, CPJ and 21 other international and regional organizations issued a joint statement condemning the law. The coalition warned that it would undermine democracy, increase censorship, and erode the rights of the press and civil society actors who rely on foreign support to operate independently and transparently.
