Human rights defenders in El Salvador must have full due process guarantees

Washington, D.C., October 20, 2025 — On May 13, human rights defenders Alejandro Henríquez and José Ángel Pérez were arrested in El Salvador amid growing repression and intimidation against those who speak out in defense of human rights and social justice. In recognition of the unjust nature of their detention, Amnesty International has declared them prisoners of conscience, along with lawyer Ruth López.

Pérez and Henríquez face charges of public disorder and resisting arrest after participating in a peaceful demonstration in defense of the El Bosque community, which was subjected to a forced eviction. The legitimate exercise of protest should not be criminalized.

On October 29, a review hearing will be held to decide whether the defenders will remain in custody. Various reports, both from local organizations and international bodies such as the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR), have documented the inhumane conditions in the Salvadoran prison system, marked by extreme overcrowding and a high risk of cruel and inhuman treatment.

WOLA urgently calls on the Salvadoran authorities to guarantee respect for due process and constitutional guarantees for Alejandro Henríquez and José Ángel Pérez. It also urges that their right to maintain contact with their legal defense and their families be restored as part of a fair and transparent judicial process.

Respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms must be the cornerstone of any rule of law.