A group of international organizations has condemned the detention of El Salvador’s human rights defender, Ruth López. López was arrested by the National Police on May 18, 2025, and her whereabouts remain unknown. Authorities have denied her access to legal counsel and family, raising serious concerns about her safety.
López is a prominent lawyer who has exposed human rights violations under President Nayib Bukele’s government. She currently heads Anti-Corruption at Cristosal, one of El Salvador’s respected human rights groups. López was recognized by the BBC in 2024 as one of 100 influential and inspiring women.
El Salvador’s state of exception has been used to silence critical voices, including journalists and civil society organizations. The government’s authoritarian tactics have undermined institutions and the rule of law, leading to a pervasive environment of fear that threatens freedoms in the country.
The international coalition is urging the Salvadoran authorities to release López immediately and guarantee her safety and due process rights. They are also calling on U.S. policymakers and the diplomatic community to urge President Bukele to cease attacks against human rights defenders.
Source: https://www.wola.org/2025/05/el-salvador-international-organizations-condemn-the-detention-of-human-rights-defender-ruth-lopez