During his speech at the United Nations General Assembly, President Nayib Bukele of El Salvador raised concerns about the current global situation, describing it as a 'dark period' and warning of a 'scary inflection point' that society is moving towards. Bukele emphasized that despite being a small country, El Salvador serves as a positive example for other nations by upholding principles such as not imprisoning opposition, allowing freedom of expression, and protecting private property.
Bukele highlighted the country's prioritization of the safety of law-abiding citizens over criminals, noting that while some criticize the imprisonment of thousands, the reality is that millions have been freed as a result of the government's actions to combat crime. The President's strong stance on maintaining freedom and security resonated with many, including entrepreneur Elon Musk, who praised Bukele's speech on social media.
Reflecting on El Salvador's past struggles with crime and violence, Bukele credited the significant turnaround to the collective effort of the Salvadoran people in reclaiming their freedom. He urged others to visit El Salvador and contribute to the country's vision for a better future, emphasizing the importance of maintaining freedom in an increasingly restrictive global environment.
Bukele's administration's tough measures against criminal activity, including the construction of a super prison and granting expanded powers to law enforcement, have led to a notable decrease in crime rates and improved security in the country. The President expressed a commitment to moving forward and ensuring that El Salvador does not regress to its troubled past.
As Bukele concluded his address to the General Assembly, he called for unity in facing the challenges ahead and building a brighter future for all nations. He emphasized the need to continue safeguarding freedom and democracy in a world where such values are under threat, urging countries to work together to overcome obstacles and create a more secure and prosperous global community.