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

Appointment of Former General as Head of El Salvador's Police Violates the Spirit of the Peace Accords

Does this represent a change in focus for the country's security policy?

27 Jan 2012

For the second time during Funes' administration, a retired military officer has been put in charge of one of the country’s public security institutions.

Former Guatemalan Dictator to Face Court for Genocide During Civil War

24 Jan 2012

José Efraín Ríos Montt will appear in court this Thursday, January 26, to face genocide charges relating to his 1982-1983 regime. However, a lack of transparency within the Defense Ministry and weaknesses in the Guatemalan justice system may make it difficult to bring him to justice.

Tackling Urban Violence in Latin America: Reversing Exclusion through Smart Policing and Social Investment

Featuring strategies in Rio de Janeiro, Medellin, Ciudad Juarez, and Santa Tecla

13 Jun 2011

This report features attempts to improve citizen security by combining law enforcement and social investment in marginalized communities most affected by crime.

Citizen Security News

Obama Administration Pushes Back on Lawsuit Regarding Wiretapping

Supreme Court to Review Case against Surveillance Law

21 Feb 2012

“We are part of this lawsuit because we can’t let fear and secrecy trump our rights or keep us from doing our work.”

Appointment of Former General as Head of El Salvador's Police Violates the Spirit of the Peace Accords

Does this represent a change in focus for the country's security policy?

27 Jan 2012

For the second time during Funes' administration, a retired military officer has been put in charge of one of the country’s public security institutions.

WOLA expresses concern about naming of new Justice and Public Security Minister in El Salvador

22 Nov 2011

The decision to name a military professional to lead citizen security in El Salvador goes against the spirit of the Peace Accords, which established a clear separation between police and military roles.

Police Strikes in Brazil Evidence of Deeper Structural Problems

10 Feb 2012

At the beginning of February, around 10,000 members of the military police in the northeastern Brazilian state of Bahia went on strike after years of failed negotiations for pay increases and better benefits. The strikes will likely spread to other areas of Brazil.

Former Guatemalan Dictator to Face Court for Genocide During Civil War

24 Jan 2012

WOLA: Promoting Human Rights, Democracy, and Social Justice

22 Dec 2011

As the year winds to a close, we hope you will enjoy this video about how WOLA works with partners in the region to advance human rights in Latin America. If you have not done so, we hope you will consider making a donation to WOLA to support our continued efforts. Your support makes a difference.