Andes

The countries of the Andean region - Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Venezuela - have experienced tremendous social upheavals in recent decades, reconfiguring political and electoral landscapes, and thrusting new coalitions and leaders into power. Millions of people have been displaced by conflict.  Yet, U.S. policy has been slow to shift from a fixation on the war on drugs, counter-insurgency and massive infusions of military aid.

WOLA seeks to move beyond the polarized debate to promote dialogue.  We work to gain recognition for the rights of displaced persons and accountability for human rights abuses.

Andes News & Analysis

House Bill Proposes Military "Training Laundering" Through Colombia

US$18.6 million could allow Colombian forces to offer training that U.S. forces cannot
Analysis & Commentary
The House Appropriations Committee wants to give Colombia's security forces US$18.6 million next year to train soldiers and police from third countries. This is a very poor idea for several reasons.

New Threats against Colombian Human Rights Defenders

Colombia's National Protection Unit must take all steps necessary to protect the lives of these Colombians
Publication

Tenth Anniversary of Bojayá, Colombia Massacre

Justice and reparations remain elusive for the victims of the massacre ten years later
Analysis & Commentary
On May 2, 2002, over 79 people, including children, were massacred in the town of Bojayá, Colombia

Murder of Trade Unionist Underscores Fragility of U.S.-Colombia Labor Action Plan

Threats and Attacks Have Increased Since Obama’s Announcement to Move Forward with Free Trade Agreement
Publication
The freedom to organize without fear of reprisal is fundamental to the creation of a fair working environment—Mr. Aguirre’s murder is a tragic reminder that this freedom does not exist in Colombia.