Gang Policy

Liberal deputy Jorge Cálix, citing El Salvador's gang-control model, called for life sentences for minors convicted of serious crimes and urged Honduras to withdraw from international agreements he says prevent harsher juvenile penalties.

Congress will advance a motion supporting the government's push to build a high-security prison for gang and organized-crime members, with plans to define the site, costs, and funding sources to begin construction within eight to ten months.

Honduras lawmakers are advancing criminal-justice reforms targeting gangs and maras that human-rights experts warn echo authoritarian measures from Nicaragua under Ortega and security policies in El Salvador, citing concerns over warrantless home searches and extended detention periods.

The National Defense and Security Council declared three criminal organizations terrorist associations in an overnight meeting at the presidential palace on September 18, with the groups' names to be announced once enforcement actions begin.

Congress President Tomás Zambrano said three criminal organizations have been designated terrorist groups so far and more designations are possible, as the government announces new measures to tighten control in prisons and prevent gang leaders from directing crimes from detention.

Congress approved penal code changes on May 18 that formally classify gangs and drug-trafficking networks as terrorist associations, but legal experts and human-rights groups warn the expanded, vague wording could be used against protesters and social movements.