WOLA in the News
WOLA is the leading source for independent analysis and commentary on Latin America. Our experts are called upon regularly by members of the press for up-to-date news on developments in the region. This page provides a selected feed of recent articles quoting WOLA. For media inquiries, please contact our press office at
Pre-Election Politics in Venezuela
Senior Fellow David Smilde analyzes the pre-election situation on the ground in Caracas, analyzing the strategies of both campaigns and what the future may hold for both candidates.
13 Apr 2013
Latin Pulse
Even in death, Chavez shadows Venezuela's vote
Senior Fellow David Smilde notes that, due to the short nature of the campaign, opposition candidate Henrique Capriles has focused his efforts on breaking the association between Maduro and Chávez.
11 Apr 2013
USA Today
An Election for the Birds
Senior Fellow David Smilde questions how a functionary of the United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV) acquired the code to start the country's voting machines, and what it might mean.
9 Apr 2013
Foreign Policy
A 'weapon' in need of civilian oversight
In a letter to the editor, Senior Fellow George Withers cautions against increasing the authority of the Special Operations Command (SOCOM).
5 Apr 2013
The Washington Post
Venezuela presidential election: lack of issues becomes the issue
In the lead-up to Venezuela's April 14 election, Senior Fellow David Smilde comments on the national political climate and conspicuous lack of post-Chávez policy debates.
2 Apr 2013
The Christian Science Monitor
The bones tell the story: The search for Peru's missing
Senior Fellow Jo-Marie Burt discusses the renewed hope brought about by the identification of three bodies that went missing from the Los Cabitos military base in the mid-1980s.
30 Mar 2013
Al Jazeera
Sparks fly in short campaign in Venezuela
Senior Fellow David Smilde comments on the presidential campaigns' flurry of activity during Holy Week, noting that the timing of the election may favor Maduro.
29 Mar 2013
Associated Press
Big surge in border-crossing deaths reported
Senior Associate Adam Isacson cites the increase in Central Americans making the journey to the U.S. through southern Texas as a main reason for the increase in migrant deaths.
18 Mar 2013
USA Today
Venezuela's political divisions, even after Chavez, spill into city streets
WOLA Senior Fellow David Smilde comments on the importance of media strategy in Venezuela's upcoming elections.
11 Mar 2013
Associated Press
Immigration reform's first hurdle: Is the border secure?
Senior Associate Adam Isacson notes the high costs necessary to secure rural areas along the border, particularly at night.
10 Mar 2013
Los Angeles Times
