Human rights at risk
The human rights situation in El Salvador is deteriorating. There is a lack of state services, making access to basic rights difficult, while civil liberties continue to be limited. Human rights organisations are increasingly criminalised. The state of emergency has created a climate of fear of arbitrary arrest. The arrest of family members causes considerable psychosocial stress, especially for women and young people, who often have to take responsibility for the household income, interrupt their education and see flight as the only way out.
I belong to Manos Unidas, a local organisation that works for the well-being of internally displaced people and to improve their quality of life. We believe that in the future our group can lead and influence projects to solve community issues such as the right to water and the rights of internally displaced people.
Ana Lidia O., 38 years old
Spokesperson for the organisation "Manos Unidas" (Unites Hands) Cristosal, El Salvador
Strong civil society
Together with our partner organisation Cristosal, we are strengthening civil society to combat human rights violations more effectively and to improve the representation of internally displaced families at the local level. Vulnerable groups, especially women and young people, will receive better support and protection at local points of support. We also provide psychological and legal support to people who have experienced human rights violations and are facing justice. In addition, self-help groups, women's groups and youth networks are supported to provide a safe space for support and exchange, and to give them a common voice to represent their interests. Over the years, Cristosal has developed a strong communication network with journalistic organisations to raise public awareness of local problems and human rights violations.
Since the beginning of the state of emergency in March 2022, Cristosal has assisted more than 600 families displaced by human rights violations committed by the state authorities.
Together with our partners, we develop strategies at the national and international level to more effectively combat human rights abuses and support victims.
Workshops specifically for women raise awareness of gender-based violence and strengthen participants' communication and organisational skills.
Publicity through alternative media helps to draw attention to human rights violations and to ensure independent and critical reporting.
Support groups are designed to help women who are particularly vulnerable to hardship and despair as a result of the disappearance and detention of their partners and young children.
Projectinfo
| Place/Region | El Salvador: La Libertad, San Salvador, Soyapango, San Vicente und Jiquilisco |
|---|---|
| Partner | CRISTOSAL |
| Activities |
|
| Duration | 2025 - 2027 |
| Budget | 275.000€ |
| Sponsor | (BMZ) Bundesministerium für wirtschaftliche Zusammenarbeit/Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development |
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