Lawyers for Lawyers and the International Observatory for Lawyers at Risk (OIAD) have released a new report assessing the situation of lawyers in El Salvador, against the backdrop of growing concerns about the erosion of the rule of law.
Since 2021, a series of institutional reforms, increasing concentration of power, and the prolonged state of emergency have had a profound impact on judicial independence and due process guarantees. In this context, lawyers – particularly those working on human rights, anti-corruption, environmental, and criminal defence cases – are facing mounting obstacles in carrying out their professional duties independently and effectively.
The report documents troubling patterns of harassment and criminalisation. These include arbitrary detention, disciplinary proceedings, restrictions on confidential communication with clients, and other measures that contribute to a chilling effect on the legal profession. It also highlights individual cases that exemplify the broader structural and personal risks currently faced by legal professionals in the country.
The independence of the legal profession is a cornerstone of access to justice and democratic governance. International standards – including the UN Basic Principles on the Role of Lawyers – affirm that lawyers must be able to perform their functions without intimidation, hindrance, harassment, or improper interference.
In light of these findings, L4L and OIAD call on the Salvadoran authorities to uphold their international obligations and to take concrete steps to safeguard the free and independent exercise of the legal profession. They also urge the international community to continue closely monitoring developments in the country.
