In the context of President Biden’s focus on addressing the root causes of migration from Central America, and the ongoing rule of law and corruption crises in that region, DPLF presented a briefing document with recommendations for the Administration’s consideration as it further develops its “Root Causes Strategy” for Central America. DPLF believes that centering anti-corruption efforts on the victims of corruption should be a cross-cutting priority. This document presents both regional and country-specific elements that should be carefully considered to ensure real and long-lasting progress in strengthening the rule of law and human rights in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras. These include supporting independent judges and prosecutors; ensuring citizen participation in oversight initiatives and selection processes for high-level justice sector officials; and promoting implementation of the recommendations of MACCIH and CICIG, while pushing for a stronger CICIES mandate. Moreover, DPLF argues that the US should support initiatives to promote a human rights-based approach to anti-corruption efforts, including strengthening the role of civil society and victims in corruption investigations and prosecutions.
