El Salvador security policies to be featured in new documentary

A new documentary titled ‘El Salvador: Cuando el miedo cambió de bando’ is set to premiere in Salvadoran cinemas on October 8, 2026. Directed by Lucas Ferrugem and Henrique Zingano, the Brazilian production examines the security policies implemented under President Nayib Bukele to combat gangs. The film features testimonies from officials, experts, and critics, covering the reduction in homicide rates alongside legal controversies surrounding the state of exception.

While official figures indicate a significant drop in violence, with a homicide rate of 1.3 per 100,000 inhabitants reported at the end of 2025, organizations such as Human Rights Watch have raised concerns regarding arbitrary detentions and due process violations.

In a separate critique of the current administration, reports highlight economic tensions. While the government promotes a narrative of economic success, the World Bank projected a growth rate of 3.2% for El Salvador in 2026. Critics argue this growth is lagging compared to the rest of Central America and primarily benefits specific sectors like construction and tourism.