Human Rights Watch has condemned the Salvadoran government’s recent mass trials, arguing they violate fundamental rights and due‑process guarantees. The court proceedings, aimed at curbing gang violence, have been criticized for lacking transparency, denying defendants access to legal counsel, and relying on coerced confessions.

HRW’s report highlights that the trials contravene both national law and international human‑rights standards, calling on the Salvadoran judiciary to halt the proceedings until independent oversight is restored. It urges the government to ensure fair trials, uphold the right to a defense, and protect the vulnerable from arbitrary detention.

These findings underscore the urgent need for systemic accountability and justice reforms in El Salvador, reminding the international community that security measures cannot override human rights.

Source: Jurist.org