El Salvador's Press Freedom Crisis: Journalists and APES Forced into Exile
A growing crackdown on press freedom in El Salvador has forced numerous journalists and the Asociación de Periodistas de El Salvador (APES), the country's main journalist association, into exile. Escalating government hostility, restrictive laws, and documented attacks have created an untenable environment for independent journalism.
The Exodus of Journalists
So far in 2025, at least 43 journalists have fled El Salvador, with a significant surge of 31 forced departures occurring in May. This exodus is driven by fear of reprisal, particularly from state agents. Journalists working for independent digital media with over 10 years of experience are particularly targeted.
Many of these journalists, initially intending a temporary departure, have not returned, fearing arbitrary detention under the government's state of exception. This has resulted in a tangible risk of an "information blackout," as experienced and independent professionals are silenced.
APES Forced to Relocate Operations
The escalating pressure culminated in an unprecedented institutional blow: APES, founded in 1936, announced the closure of its operations in El Salvador and the relocation of its legal entity to another country in the region. This decision, marking the end of an era for Central American press advocacy, was forced by the "Law on Foreign Agents" and the government's refusal to renew the association's credentials.
Sergio Arauz, president of APES, stated that remaining in El Salvador under the Foreign Agents Law would force the organization to "die" or "be obliged to shut up". APES seeks to maintain its ability to support journalists within El Salvador, despite operating from exile.
The Law on Foreign Agents and Government Hostility
The "Law on Foreign Agents," enacted by the Nayib Bukele administration, imposes stringent controls on foreign funding, requiring organizations receiving foreign funds to register with the government and potentially face a 30% tax on those funds. This law is viewed as a deliberate attempt to stifle critical voices, as it makes it challenging for NGOs and media outlets to operate independently.
In addition to the law, there have been over 789 documented attacks against the press in 2024, the highest number in a decade. These aggressions reportedly come mostly from state agents. Government officials have intensified public accusations against media outlets, accusing them of foreign interference or implicating journalists in crimes like money laundering without evidence.
International Condemnation and Democratic Backsliding
The international community is increasingly alarmed by the deteriorating situation in El Salvador. The latest World Press Freedom Index, published by Reporters Without Borders, has placed El Salvador at 135 out of 180 countries, signaling a dramatic decline in press freedom and democratic principles.
Organizations like Cristosal, a human rights organization, have also been forced into exile, and several activists have been detained under the state of exception. This systematic persecution aims to silence any dissenting voice, regardless of their field.
A Broader Pattern of Repression
The pressures on journalism are part of a larger trend of repression. Bukele's government is employing the state of exception to silence critical press and repress civil society. The government is using it to criminalize anyone contradicting the official narrative.
The environment is so hostile that El Faro moved its legal operations to Costa Rica after its journalists were allegedly targeted for espionage. Other journalists are facing an array of tactics, including anonymous calls, home raids, and police surveillance.
| Area | Impact |
|---|---|
| Journalist Exiles (2025) | 43+ |
| Attacks Against Press (2024) | 789 |
| APES Status | Operations closed; legal entity relocated |
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