In a significant shift in the judicial approach towards youth crime, Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele has proposed a law that would allow life sentences for minors involved in serious crimes such as murder and rape, regardless of their gang affiliations. This move comes shortly after the El Salvador Legislative Assembly approved a constitutional reform aimed at increasing penalties for adults guilty of homicide, sexual violence, and terrorism, reflecting Bukele's continuing hardline stance on crime and public safety.

The proposed legislation is to be presented before Congress for approval, indicating the government's commitment to tough measures in response to rising crime rates associated with gangs and violence in the country. Bukele's administration has been criticized for its authoritarian style, with opponents arguing that these laws could lead to increased violence and infringe on human rights, particularly as they potentially target minors without considering rehabilitation.

Vice President Félix Ulloa defended the proposal by stating that while prisons should not be luxurious, they still must treat inmates humanely. The introduction of life sentences for youths has sparked debate about the effectiveness of such policies in truly addressing the root causes of crime in El Salvador and whether it will lead to a decrease in violence or merely result in harsher punitive measures without significant reform in social or educational support systems.