El Salvador is now providing 5,000 "free passports" to talented professionals from other countries, as stated by President Nayib Bukele. This is part of his efforts to attract foreign investment and strengthen the country's economy.
According to the president's announcement on X, individuals such as scientists, engineers, doctors, artists, and philosophers will receive "full citizen status", which includes the right to vote.
El Salvador is also supporting the relocation process by removing taxes and tariffs on items like equipment, software, and intellectual property for families moving there.
President Bukele mentioned that the support from...
CNN has reached out to El Salvador’s government for details on the plan.
El Salvador has seen multiple radical and often controversial reforms under the strong-arm president’s leadership.
In 2021, El Salvador made Bitcoin an official currency alongside the US dollar. However, the International Monetary Fund has advised the country to stop using cryptocurrency due to its high volatility.
Last year, the legislative assembly passed a law to make it easier for foreigners who donate Bitcoin to support social and economic development programs to become citizens, according to Reuters.
Bukele has been in charge of a harsh and heavily condemned campaign against crime. He insists that this has greatly enhanced security. However, his critics argue that it has led to widespread human rights violations. These include mass arrests and reports of torture in prisons.
Editor's P/S:
El Salvador's initiative to attract skilled professionals is a bold move that has the potential to boost the country's economy and foster innovation. The offer of full citizenship, including voting rights, is a significant incentive for talented individuals to relocate and contribute to El Salvador's development. By removing taxes and tariffs on essential items for families, the government is further supporting the relocation process, making it more accessible for professionals to establish themselves in the country.
However, it is crucial to note the ongoing concerns surrounding human rights violations under President Bukele's leadership. The harsh anti-crime campaign, mass arrests, and reports of torture raise ethical questions and cast a shadow over El Salvador's efforts to attract foreign investment. It is essential for the government to address these concerns and ensure that its policies comply with international human rights standards. A balanced approach that prioritizes both economic growth and the protection of fundamental freedoms will ultimately serve El Salvador's long-term interests.