This session will bring together social movements from Central America to discuss the challenges of authoritarianism and strengthen strategies for resistance and justice.

Central America is at a critical juncture: authoritarian regimes are consolidating, weakening the rule of law and the system of checks and balances between powers, and co-opting justice systems. Judicial independence is being eroded, and with it the rights of hundreds of defenders, journalists, justice operators and community leaders, who are victims of criminalization, arbitrary detention and forced exile. Added to this is the closure of civic space, with attacks on the press and laws that stifle civil society. But in the face of this situation, Central America is not giving up. It is resisting, organizing and proposing paths of hope. This panel will bring together voices from Central American social movements that, despite a hostile environment, continue to defend justice and human rights. They will share their struggles, strategies, proposals, and needs to sustain resistance and reimagine a democratic future. It is an urgent call to listen, connect and act.