The president of El Salvador, Nayib Bukele, remains one of the most internationally supported political figures, a result of a strategy that combines far-reaching social and economic reforms and initiatives.
Several recent studies and polls place Bukele at the top of the list of public preference, setting a precedent in the region for his high approval ratings.
The most recent data from firms such as CID Gallup and World of Statistics, corresponding to the end of 2025, reveals that the president’s approval rating exceeds 90%.
This support is attributed to a series of government actions that have transformed the country’s social and economic dynamics, especially in the last two years.
Direct subsidies and inflation support
Among the most noteworthy initiatives is the announcement that the government will cover all water and electricity bills for 95% of Salvadoran households.
This measure, implemented in January 2025, represents significant relief for 1.8 million families, who receive subsidies of up to $30 for drinking water and $80 for electricity.
The main objective is to mitigate the effects of inflation and rising prices for essential services.
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Salary improvements and new benefits
In June 2025, the government approved a 12% increase in the minimum wage, benefiting workers in the industrial and service sectors, whose monthly earnings rose from $365 to $408.80.
In addition, the government implemented early payment of the Christmas bonus and a tax exemption for amounts under $1,500, with inspections by labor authorities to ensure the proper implementation of these measures.
Technological advances in health and education
The healthcare sector has been strengthened with the launch of DoctorSV, a free telemedicine application developed in partnership with CAF and Google.
This platform has registered over 200,000 downloads and handles an average of 10,000 consultations daily.
In education, the Certifícate program, in collaboration with Platzi, provides free access to more than 1,600 online courses, achieving 60,000 enrollments in just one day and awarding 300 technology scholarships to public school students.
The Fortnight 25 Law and its impact
The most recent reform, Law 25, was enacted on January 14, 2026.
This provision guarantees an additional income equivalent to 50% of the monthly salary for employees earning up to $1,500.
Initially, the law is mandatory in the public sector and voluntary in the private sector, with the intention of extending its mandatory nature in 2027.
This benefit is exempt from taxes and deductions, which increases its positive impact on family finances.
Debate on sustainability and rights
While international experts acknowledge the role of these policies in strengthening public support for Bukele, they also point to the need to analyze their fiscal viability and respect for fundamental rights.
The debate on the sustainability of these initiatives continues in national and international forums.
