Regular labor migration from El Salvador: an analysis of governance and human rights

A qualitative study on labor mobility programs and their alignment with the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration

Abstract

This article analyzes the governance of regular labor migration from El Salvador and the human rights guarantees for Salvadoran workers participating in programs managed by the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Labor and Social Welfare. The study is framed within the commitments assumed by the Salvadoran State under the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration. Using a qualitative and exploratory methodology, in-depth interviews were conducted with migrants, institutional staff, and representatives of international organizations. The findings demonstrate progress in the institutionalization of labor mobility mechanisms and a sustained increase in temporary work permits, primarily to the United States and Canada. The study concludes that, while the programs have contributed to formalizing legal pathways to employment abroad, their sustainability depends on institutional strengthening, improved consular support, the reduction of gender and territorial disparities, and the allocation of adequate resources to ensure compliance with international human rights standards.