Citizen Security

...pioneering new approaches to prevent and combat crime and violence

Latin American countries face some of the highest rates of crime and violence in the world. WOLA works for comprehensive reform that addresses the root causes of violence and ensures effective, accountable police and judicial systems. With partners in the region, we advocate reforms that protect both the rights and the security of citizens.

Featured Content

Public Security in El Salvador: Civilian Leadership and the Challenges Ahead

The Constitutional Court’s Dismissal of Generals Munguía Payés and Salinas
21 May 2013
Analysis & Commentary
On Friday, May 17, the Constitutional Chamber of El Salvador’s Supreme Court affirmed that the appointment of former General David Munguía Payés as Minister of Justice and Public Security and former General Francisco Salinas as director of the National Civilian Police violated the constitutional requirement that these posts be held by civilians.

One Year into the Gang Truce in El Salvador

Can the Funes Administration Turn the Fragile Truce into Sustainable Public Policy?
26 Apr 2013
Analysis & Commentary
In March 2012, authorities in El Salvador facilitated a truce between the country’s two largest street gangs, MS-13 and the 18th Street gang. Homicide rates began to drop quickly after the truce was announced, going from around 14 murders a day to about five, and to many observers’ surprise, the truce has now lasted over a year.

Tracking International Anti-Crime and Violence Prevention Efforts in Central America

31 Jan 2013
Publication
The Mapping of Internationally-Funded Citizen Security Projects in Central America is a joint initiative of WOLA and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) to monitor international assistance from multilateral institutions, donor governments, and private foundations to support anti-crime and violence reduction programs in Central America.
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Citizen Security News & Analysis

WOLA's 2012 Human Rights Awards Ceremony & Benefit Gala

19 Sep 2012
Video
On September 19, WOLA presented its 2012 Human Rights Awards. This year, the theme of the award was Overcoming Violence: The New Human Rights Agenda. Watch the Awards Ceremony here.

Brazilian Citizen Security Policies: Variety of Experiences Useful in Regional Debates

22 Aug 2012
Analysis & Commentary
Brazil, like many countries in Latin America, has struggled over the last 20 years with how to effectively address high levels of crime and violence.

Release of Suspected Drug Trafficker in Honduras Raises Questions about Corruption in Honduras and El Salvador

10 Aug 2012
Analysis & Commentary
The arrest and subsequent release of suspected drug trafficker Chepe Luna in Honduras this week has led many to question the commitment of the Honduran and Salvadoran governments to combating organized crime.

Brazil security and human rights update

WOLA's Joseph Bateman on Brazil's evolving public security situation, human rights, and Brasília's foreign policy
1 Aug 2012
Publication
Adam talks to Joseph Bateman, WOLA's Program Officer for Brazil, about what he's learned on 3 recent visits. Topics include citizen security and policing, human rights and the new Truth Commission, and Brazil's foreign policy and relations with Washington.
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Stay Informed

Experts

Geoff Thale

Program Director

Adriana Beltrán

Senior Associate for Citizen Security

Monitoring Aid

See Also

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