Costa Rica Honors El Salvador's Bukele Amidst Rising Violence

President Nayib Bukele receives Costa Rica's top diplomatic award for reducing gang violence, sparking debate over his controversial methods.

President Rodrigo Chaves of Costa Rica awarded El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele the National Order of Juan Mora Fernández for his success in reducing gang violence.
Bukele's recognition comes as Costa Rica faces its own surge in homicides, largely attributed to drug trafficking, with 757 murders reported so far this year.
Bukele's approach to reducing violence has involved suspending certain constitutional rights, which has drawn criticism for bypassing due process.
Despite controversy, Bukele maintains high approval ratings and recently secured an unprecedented second term as El Salvador's president.
Both leaders plan to visit a major Costa Rican prison and have discussed forming a coalition of like-minded countries to enhance regional security.