In El Salvador, amidst rampant violence and discrimination, Verónica Reyna has emerged as a beacon of hope as a human rights defender. Her role as director of the Passionist Social Service (SSPAS) involves denouncing police abuses and advocating for life rights, especially on International Women’s Day when she sheds light on the violence faced by women, youth, and the LGBTIQ+ community. Since the state of emergency was declared on 27 March 2022, civil liberties have been curtailed, but Verónica argues that human rights protection is vital for democracy.
Verónica Reyna cites her personal experiences and the socio-historical context of El Salvador as her driving force in human rights defence. The pervasive threat of gang violence, especially affecting the youth, ignited her passion to stand up for justice and support those vulnerable in her community. Her continued motivation comes from the resiliency of victims and social movements, showcasing their courage in raising their voices against daily injustices and discrimination.
The Passionist Social Service has a long-standing heritage of documenting state violence, particularly against the vulnerable. For over a decade, they have been chronicling cases of arbitrary detentions and abuse, which have surged under the current state of emergency. As advocates for life rights, they strive to amplify victims’ voices and seek protection at both national and international levels amidst growing oppression.
The dangers facing human rights defenders have significantly escalated with the state of emergency. The government is exploiting this situation, suspending constitutional protections and intensifying threats against activists. Over 83,000 individuals have been arbitrarily detained, creating a climate of fear that stifles dissent and marginalises critical voices.
Gender discrimination and police violence are pervasive issues under the current security policies. Predominantly, young men of colour from impoverished backgrounds bear the brunt of these policies, ultimately creating additional burdens on women. Detainees often lack basic necessities, placing further pressures on women to provide for their families, while detained individuals endure serious forms of violence, including obstetric and sexual abuse.
Non-governmental organisations are equally threatened as the emergency exerts greater control over civic spaces. A concerted strategy of harassment operates through legal obstacles, police intimidation, and isolating defenders, contributing to their vulnerability, particularly for land defenders lacking resources and support networks.
President Nayib Bukele’s popularity hinges on a crafted narrative of development and safety, but Verónica warns that his governance is fundamentally conservative and oppressive. The portrayal of his administration neglects women’s rights and the rights of marginalised groups, operating through aggressive repressive measures deploying military force against Salvadorans.
Verónica calls on the international community to scrutinise Bukele’s model of security, suggesting it poses a severe threat to democracy. She emphasises the need for international oversight in prisons to mitigate reported torture and to expose the detrimental impact of policies on society’s vulnerable groups, including children and women.
Despite the oppressive climate, Verónica finds solace in the growing activism of social movements. More people are rallying to denounce the repercussions of the state of emergency, leading to an intensified fight for social justice, though challenges remain. She holds hope that, together, they can stave off democratic declines and forge a path toward triumph in human rights for all Salvadorans.
Verónica Reyna, a human rights defender in El Salvador, highlights the violence against women, youth, and the LGBTIQ+ community during the state of emergency. The Passionist Social Service documents state violence and amplifies victim voices while facing increased dangers. The current government under President Bukele faces criticism for its repressive tactics and disregard for human rights. Despite challenges, there is hope within social movements advocating for justice.
Verónica Reyna’s story is a poignant reminder of the strength of human rights defenders in El Salvador. Despite the threats posed by the state of emergency, she finds inspiration in the resilience of victims and social movements, advocating fiercely for justice. As oppression continues, the international community must rise to safeguard human rights and reject authoritarian measures that threaten the fabric of democracy.
Original Source: www.omct.org
