Story perspectives

El Salvador Allows Life Sentences for Minors Amid Controversy

4/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele enacted reforms allowing life imprisonment for minors as young as 12, effective April 26.
The constitutional amendment was approved by Congress amid criticism from human rights groups over abuses during the state of emergency.
The government says crime fell, with 82 murders reported in 2025.
Critics say the reforms undermine children's rights and democratic principles.
Reports note arbitrary detentions, harsh prison conditions, and due-process violations.

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Story summary

El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele enacted reforms allowing life imprisonment for minors as young as 12, effective April 26.
The constitutional amendment was approved by Congress amid criticism from human rights groups over abuses during the state of emergency.
The government says crime fell, with 82 murders reported in 2025.
Critics say the reforms undermine children's rights and democratic principles.
Reports note arbitrary detentions, harsh prison conditions, and due-process violations.