Roberto d’Aubuisson vs Schafik Handal: Militancy, Memory Work and Human Rights

Abstract

This article examines the memory work that former parties to the Salvadoran conflict engage in with regard to two key historical leaders: Roberto d'Aubuisson, on the right, and Sehafik Handal, on the left. In spite of the peace process' relative success, El Salvador continues to be politically divided. Narratives concerning the historical role of these two leaders and their respective organizations are mobilized frequently and emphatically in political activities. The two main partisan groups strive to glorify their past and discredit that of their adversaries by use of "militant memories". Building on theory regarding memory politics, the article analyses how rhetorical requirements associated with militant polities propagandize history to nurture loyalty, polarization and even impunity. Adapted from the source document.