Analysis & Commentary

Three Harbingers of Change in U.S. Cuba Policy

Rep. Castor’s Announcement, Yoani Sánchez’ Visit, and the State Department’s Terrorist List Review
There are signs that change is coming. Here are three recent developments that are indicative of where the U.S.-Cuba relationship is headed

Colombia Peace Process Update (March 27, 2013)

A progress report on the dialogues
A progress report on the dialogues taking place in Havana between Colombia's government and the FARC guerrillas. Main issues: finishing the land and rural development agenda item, moderate optimism about the timetable, support from the U.S. and neighboring governments.

The Bones Speak: The Remains of Three of the Disappeared are Found in Los Cabitos (Peru)

Article in the blog La Mula on the search for truth following Peru's internal armed conflict
The exhumation of several executed bodies from Los Cabitos military base in Peru is further evidence of crimes committed during Peru's internal armed conflict, as WOLA Senior Fellow Jo-Marie Burt explains.(Spanish only)

Scenes from the Trial of General Efraín Ríos Montt

On the opening day of the trial against the former Guatemalan dictator, WOLA Program Director Geoff Thale gives a firsthand account of the proceedings.

Will You Support Peace in Colombia?

Ask Your Representative to Sign a Dear Colleague Letter Promoting Peace in Colombia
The letter, co-sponsored by Reps. McGovern and Schakowsky, calls on the Department of State to support the Colombia peace process and calls for the implementation of aid and policies that promote a lasting peace.

20 Years after the Salvadoran Truth Commission

Program Director Geoff Thale and Senior Associate for Citizen Security Adriana Beltrán analyze the current situation in El Salvador, 20 years after the establishment of the Salvadoran Truth Commission.

Humanitarian Crisis on the Border

Executive Director Joy Olson gives a firsthand account of the situation at the Arizona-Sonora border, providing a glimpse into Operation Streamline proceedings and examining the problem with the current "us vs. them" mentality.

Mexico’s New Military Police Force: The Continued Militarization of Public Security in Mexico

Maureen Meyer examines Mexico's proposed gendarmerie—a force to be made up of tens of thousands of former soldiers—and its potential implications for human rights.