Human rights groups raise alarm over fate of Salvadorans deported from U.S.

For the past four years, Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele has maintained a state of exception, suspending certain rights and creating a police state that affects deportees from the U.S. like T, a transgender woman who fled El Salvador due to harassment. Upon her deportation, T faced invasive checks by Salvadoran authorities and feared detention in the notorious CECOT prison. This situation is common for many deportees, as over 9,000 Salvadorans have been sent back since 2025, with many disappearing into prisons without contact with family or legal help. This crackdown began in March 2022 after a surge in violence, leading to widespread detentions. The story highlights the harsh realities faced by deportees and the ongoing human rights concerns in El Salvador. QUESTION: How might the experiences of deportees like T influence international views on immigration policies?