The Latin American Studies Association (LASA) strongly condemns the constitutional reforms approved by the Legislative Assembly of El Salvador on July 31, 2025. These reforms eliminates presidential term limits on presidential reelection, extend the length of the presidential term, and modify the country’s electoral calendar, constituting a direct threat to democracy, the rule of law, and fundamental rights, including academic freedom.
With 57 votes from the ruling Nuevas Ideas (“New Ideas”) party and its allies, the Assembly approved indefinite presidential reelection, the extension of the term of office from five to six years, the elimination of the runoff election, and the advancement of presidential elections to 2027, to coincide with legislative and municipal elections. A previous amendment to Article 248 of the Constitution allowed these changes to be enacted in a single legislative session, violating the constitutional tradition of double ratification and weakening democratic oversight mechanisms.
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.