El Salvador's New School Decrees Criticized as Military Takeover

Education Militarization in El Salvador Sparks Controversy

El Salvador's government has implemented sweeping new education decrees that critics are calling a "militarization of schools." The measures, introduced by newly appointed Education Minister Karla Trigueros—a military officer with no prior education experience—mandate strict discipline, uniform requirements, and patriotic ceremonies in the country's 5,000 public schools.

New Regulations and Requirements

The decrees require students to maintain clean uniforms, appropriate hairstyles, and orderly behavior, including respectful greetings to school directors. On "Civic Mondays," students must sing the national anthem while the Salvadoran flag is raised. President Nayib Bukele defended the measures as necessary to instill discipline in younger generations who will help build "a new El Salvador."

Military Background Raises Concerns

Minister Trigueros's appointment has drawn sharp criticism from educators and opposition figures. She appeared in military uniform at her swearing-in ceremony, prompting concerns about the militarization of education. Claudia Ortiz, an opposition legislator, called the measures "for show" and criticized the government for focusing on superficial changes rather than addressing fundamental issues like school infrastructure and teacher salaries.

Broader Context of Bukele's Policies

These education reforms occur within the context of Bukele's broader authoritarian tendencies. Since 2019, El Salvador has been under a state of emergency that has led to the imprisonment of over 84,000 Salvadorans, many on vague charges without access to legal representation. Human rights organizations have documented widespread abuses, including torture, in the country's prison system.

Impact on Youth and Education

The crackdown has extended to schools, where students have faced severe consequences for minor infractions. Earlier this year, three teenagers received five-year prison sentences for making gang-associated gestures in a TikTok video recorded at school. Another 17-year-old was imprisoned for drawing gang-related images.

Democratic Backsliding Continues

The education decrees represent another step in what critics describe as El Salvador's democratic decline. Recent constitutional changes allow Bukele to run for unlimited reelection, potentially keeping him in power for decades. The combination of military influence in education, extended emergency powers, and elimination of term limits has raised alarm among international observers and human rights advocates.