The Central American region ranks at the bottom in the Americas in terms of corruption perception. Out of 180 countries evaluated, where the top positions indicate a perception of higher transparency and the bottom ones a perception of higher corruption, some countries in the Central American region stand out for their low scores:*
116
Position El Salvador
150
Position Guatemala
157
Position Honduras
167
Position Nicaragua
*Corruption Perception Index (2022).
We work in the Central American region to ensure that its justice systems meet the needs of the population.
We promote the strengthening of the justice sector institutions based on four pillars:
Judicial Independence
Judicial Independence is a crucial principle for the consolidation of democracy and the rule of law, as well as a necessary condition for the exercise of the right to effective judicial protection. This implies that judges act and decide on matters within their jurisdiction without any motivation other than observing legal precepts and parameters outlined in the current legal order. Those holding judicial positions should operate without political, economic, or any other influences.
Access to Justice
Access to Justice is a fundamental human right for the consolidation of a rule of law and the human development of individuals. It involves the availability, use, and access (material and legal) to tools and mechanisms for the recognition and protection of rights, allowing for a peaceful and effective resolution of individual or collective conflicts. Access to justice implies an effective judicial protection system that works for all people fairly and equitably.
Anti-Corruption Measures
Anti-corruption Measures include all plans, actions, and strategies aimed at preventing, detecting, and punishing corruption. These may include mechanisms for promoting transparency, accountability, and citizen participation; strategies for education and the promotion of integrity, as well as the promotion of regulatory adjustments to strengthen the comprehensive approach to this scourge.
Rule of Law
Rule of Law includes a set of values and behaviors that guides individuals, collectives, or people to develop social practices of compliance and obedience to law and justice. The Rule of Law is essential for the consolidation of solid, transparent, democratic institutions that respect human rights.