Post-conflict gang violence Since 1992, gang violence in El Salvador has contributed to more deaths per annum than at some points during the war Establishment of the PNC did little to stop gang activities Majority of gang-members are young, male, and have been deported from the United States Sources: Pérez, 2004; Arana, 2005; McIlwaine, 1998

American Anti-Gang Measures and Deportation New Congressional measures allow for deportation of suspected gang members regardless of status in America – Significant impact on gang activity in Central America New deportations significantly hamper Salvadoran efforts to counter gang activities Recent deportees arrive with new knowledge of movements and contacts back in the States Sources: Arana, 2005; : Campos-Flores and Romano, 2005; Johnson and Mahlhausen, 2005; McIlwaine, 1998

Super Mano Dura Implemented 2003, then reinstated 2004 A hard-line, “get tough” approach to gang activities in El Salvador Heavily endorsed by the American government Sources: Arana, 2005; Home, 2007

Impact of Super Mano Dura Inconsistently applied since inception Number of incidences of gang violence has actually increased since 2003 Initially received complains about human rights violations Increased co-ordination with the FBI has allowed Salvadoran anti-gang groups monitor gang movements and activities across the region Sources: Home, 2007; Pérez, 2004

What Happens Next? Anti-gang policies that aim to incriminate membership do little to stop gang activities – Initiatives aimed at preventing gang membership has proven more successful in the long-term Better coordination regarding deportations could drastically improve anti-gang progress in El Salvador Community-based, family-oriented initiatives in Los Angeles have successfully decreased gang violence Sources: Arana, 2005; Johnson and Muhlhauden, 2005