About WOLA 

The Washington Office on Latin America promotes human rights, democracy and social and economic justice in Latin America and the Caribbean. WOLA facilitates dialogue between governmental and non-governmental actors, monitors the impact of policies and programs of governments and international organizations, and promotes alternatives through reporting, education, training and advocacy. Founded in 1974 by a coalition of civic and religious leaders, WOLA works closely with civil society organizations and government officials throughout the Americas.

Policy Leadership

Since 1975, when WOLA worked behind the scenes to write the first major legislation conditioning U.S. military aid abroad on human rights practices, WOLA has played a key role in all major Washington policy debates over human rights in Latin America. Today, WOLA staff are called upon regularly to provide information and analysis to the executive branch, to multilateral organizations, to members of Congress, and to U.S. and Latin American media.

Coalition Building

WOLA plays a leading role within four somewhat distinct networks of non-governmental organizations: the human rights community, the foreign policy community, academic think-tanks, and the community of peace, justice, solidarity, and religious-based organizations.  WOLA's role as a bridge connecting different networks with each other and with policy-makers has increased over the years. The ability to accurately analyze political dynamics in specific countries and regionally has given WOLA a central role in defining policy options and developing strategies for the expanding community of development, environmental, and human rights organizations engaged with U.S. policy on Latin America.

Strengthening NGO's in Latin America

Through its Spanish-language newsletters, training workshops in Washington and Latin America, and an active visitor program, WOLA acts as a bridge to help Latin American non-governmental organizations working for human rights and social justice gain greater understanding of and access to policy-making circles in Washington and in their own countries.

Educating the Public

WOLA monitors the impact of U.S. foreign policy on human rights, democracy and equitable development in Latin America. Through its reports WOLA informs and educates policy-makers, religious and non-governmental organizations, and the general public about that impact. In addition, WOLA's  briefings bring policy-makers and the media in direct contact with Latin American leaders and experts on a regular basis.