This article argues that CECOT, El Salvador's Terrorism Confinement Center, functions as a concentration camp. It highlights the mass detention of civilians without due process, the lack of trials, and the indefinite nature of detention, all characteristics of concentration camps throughout history.
The article draws parallels between CECOT and historical concentration camps, such as those operated by the Nazis and the Soviet Gulag. It emphasizes that while Auschwitz is associated with extermination, other camps were used for intimidation and political punishment. CECOT shares this characteristic, as it is used to consolidate power and punish political opponents.
The article points to the collaboration between the US and El Salvador under the Trump administration, citing the deportation of Venezuelan and other migrants to CECOT. It highlights the financial support from the US and the apparent lack of due process involved. This reveals a partnership between Trump and Bukele, furthering authoritarian tactics.
The article criticizes the lack of transparency and due process involved in the operation of CECOT. It highlights reports of hundreds of deaths in El Salvadoran prisons under Bukele. The article also notes the dubious nature of the “terrorism” charges against many detainees, with evidence suggesting a high percentage of those deported to CECOT have no criminal convictions.
The author connects CECOT's practices to a long history of extrajudicial detention and inhumane treatment of detainees in various countries. This includes references to past US actions and policies in various contexts.
The article concludes that CECOT represents a continuation and expansion of questionable detention practices, with parallels to past abuses. It notes that such camps rarely close willingly and are often stopped by external factors such as war, death of a leader, judicial intervention, or popular uprisings.