From "Mano Dura" to "Enfrentamiento Directo": Swings of public policies in El Salvador

Abstract

Introduction: The articles analyses the four most important policies on public safety against gangs in El Salvador: Mano Dura (2003-2004), Súper Mano Dura (2004-2009), Tregua entre pandillas (2012-2014) and Enfrentamiento Directo (2014-2019). It aims to identify the impact of these policies on violence. Materials and Methods: The article is based on a qualitative research supported by 12 interviews and by life report with which it explores governmental responsibilities for violence problem in El Salvador. The fieldwork was accomplished in seven months, between September 2016 and March 2017. Data were processed through software MAXqda 12. Results: The research finds 1) the influence of electoral ambitions of the decision-makers on the formulation of policies; 2) the poor planification and discussion on the impact of governmental actions; and 3) the complex political and social scenario El Salvador will face. Discussion: based on these results and comparing them with the findings by scientific literature on the subject, the article supports the informants' statements according to which the four implemented policies have failed due to El Salvador's democratic fragility, to electoral ambitions of the political party in power and to poor capacity in designing good policies. The four implemented policies have had counter-productive effects and have made feasible the expansion and reorganization of gangs and the deepening of violence.