A new survey sheds light on the stark realities faced by many Salvadorans, while also revealing a surprising sense of optimism for the future. The “Rumbo País 2024” survey, conducted by Crypto News Flash, surveyed a cross-section of Salvadoran society and provides a window into the nation’s current socioeconomic landscape.
The survey, which polled a representative sample of Salvadorans, found that more than 70% of respondents live in urban areas, with a majority aged between 30 and 49. However, it also highlighted significant challenges in the labor market, as only 29.5% reported having full-time employment. This suggests that economic stability remains elusive for a significant portion of the population, especially in light of the country’s struggles with unemployment and underemployment.
El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele. Photo credit: REUTERS/Jose Cabeza.
Education levels among respondents also pointed to broader systemic challenges. Nearly 40% reported having high school diplomas as their highest level of education, while 37.8% had education up to high school, reflecting limited access to higher education and persistent barriers to academic advancement. These figures underscore long-standing concerns about the quality of education and the scarcity of job opportunities for those with lower qualifications.
Yet, despite these economic and social difficulties, the survey revealed an unexpected finding: 58.2% of respondents expressed optimism about the future of the country. This sentiment may be tied to recent government efforts aimed at economic revitalization and security improvements, although much work remains to be done to address deep-rooted inequalities.
The survey also explored public trust in key institutions. Notably, the Armed Forces and the National Civil Police garnered the highest levels of trust among Salvadorans, with both institutions seen as central to maintaining law and order amid ongoing security challenges. Interestingly, despite concerns over civil liberties, approval for the controversial state of exception—a measure introduced to combat gang violence—stood at a robust 76.4%. This high level of support suggests that many Salvadorans are willing to accept extraordinary measures in exchange for greater security.
As El Salvador continues to navigate its economic and social challenges, the findings from the “Rumbo País 2024” survey offer a complex but revealing portrait of a nation grappling with its future while holding on to a sense of hope.
