Electoral Compliance as a Foundation for Strengthening the Democratic System in El Salvador

Abstract

This document examines the possibility of implementing
an electoral compliance system for political parties in
El Salvador. To this end, it begins with the concept of
compliance, tracing its origins and the main reasons
for its application: achieving regulatory adherence
through self-regulation as a means of risk prevention.
In this regard, it argues that a compliance system can
be valuable for any type of organization, regardless
of the objectives established for it. Accordingly, an
analysis is conducted of Salvadoran political parties,
understood as organizations of a sui generis nature, yet
subject to specific regulations that impose upon them
both responsibilities and obligations. Nonetheless,
Salvadoran political parties have been characterized by
their persistent lack of compliance, which has largely
generated distrust among a considerable segment of
the citizenry. For this reason, the document proposes
the creation of an electoral compliance system that
not only addresses and prevents the risks traditionally
considered by compliance programs, but also seeks to
instill a culture of compliance within political institutions
across all dimensions of their operations. This, in turn,
will strengthen these organizations, help restore public
confidence, and contribute to reinforcing the integrity
and resilience of the democratic system.