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El Salvador Approves Life Sentences Amid Criticism of Democracy

3/18/2026

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Summary

Story summary

El Salvador's Congress approved a constitutional amendment on March 17, 2026, allowing life sentences for serious crimes such as murder and rape.
President Nayib Bukele, the president of El Salvador, pushed the reform, which passed 59 votes to 1 against.
Critics say the measure deepens democratic concerns as the state of emergency since March 2022 has produced over 91,000 arrests and alleged unlawful detentions, risking crimes against humanity.

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Story summary

El Salvador's Congress approved a constitutional amendment on March 17, 2026, allowing life sentences for serious crimes such as murder and rape.
President Nayib Bukele, the president of El Salvador, pushed the reform, which passed 59 votes to 1 against.
Critics say the measure deepens democratic concerns as the state of emergency since March 2022 has produced over 91,000 arrests and alleged unlawful detentions, risking crimes against humanity.