The Latin American Studies Association (LASA) expresses concern over reports that El Salvador’s Attorney General’s Office is preparing arrest warrants for El Faro journalists following the publication of an interview with former gang leaders. This is the latest in a series of attacks by the government of Nayib Bukele against independent investigative journalism in El Salvador, and specifically against El Faro journalists, since he came to office in 2019. But it is the first time in decades that prosecutors seek to press charges against individual journalists for their work. It is important to note that El Faro has built a productive relationship with academia, and its journalistic investigations constitute an indisputable and solid foundation for academic work both within and beyond El Salvador.
About LASA
The Latin American Studies Association (LASA) is the largest professional association in the world for individuals and institutions engaged in the study of Latin America. With over 13,000 members, over 60% of whom reside outside the United States, LASA is the one association that brings together experts on Latin America from all disciplines and diverse occupational endeavors, across the globe. LASA's mission is to foster intellectual discussion, research, and teaching on Latin America, the Caribbean, and its people throughout the Americas, promote the interests of its diverse membership, and encourage civic engagement through network building and public debate.
If you wish to interview a LASA Executive Council member, you can contact the LASA communications office at (412) 648-7929 or send an email to lasa@lasaweb.org.