El Salvador has a particularly deep, close, and multifaceted relationship with the United States.  Approximately 25 percent of Salvadorans live abroad, and most of these reside in the U.S.  These ties are important to our bilateral relationship and are a factor for migration to the United States, but lack of economic opportunity and insecurity in El Salvador are cited as the fundamental root causes of outward migration.  Many illegal immigrants returning from the United States cite a lack of economic opportunities, insecurity, and a lack of government protections and services, as their main reasons for leaving El Salvador. In addition, El Salvador frequently experiences extreme climate events, such as flooding and drought, and natural disasters, such as earthquakes and tropical storms.  These crises affect physical and human capital, have particular impacts on women and children, and further exacerbate internal displacement and both legal and illegal migration.  Improved security, enhanced economic opportunity, and strengthened governance will therefore play a central role in responding to the needs of Salvadoran citizens, including the specific needs of women and youth, and in building resilience to the country’s vulnerabilities so that its citizens can prosper in their home communities.

USAID is working with the government and people of El Salvador for a country that is more prosperous, safe and self-reliant so Salvadorans believe they can build a better life at home. The goal for this five year country strategy is to help El Salvador stem the flow of illegal migration to the United States by addressing the root causes that drive Salvadorans north. To achieve this goal, USAID will work to improve security in Salvadoran communities for people likely to migrate; increase jobs and incomes for likely migrants; and improve government responsiveness, accountability, and transparency.

USAID’s programs under the new CDCS will build self-reliance rather than dependency.  Moving the country forward on its journey to self-reliance, USAID will help strengthen the Government of El Salvador’s capacity to create more safe and secure conditions for its population and reduce impunity. USAID will assist the Salvadoran government to increase its own resources and promote private sector engagement and partnerships, and expand the transparency and accountability of its functions. USAID will also continue to engage directly with private sector partners to invest in the country’s future and to open up opportunities for U.S. businesses to invest in El Salvador. USAID will strengthen key institutions to better serve the Salvadoran people, promote partnerships with the private sector and civil society, and expand the transparency and accountability of government to citizens.