Highlights
Stay updated with WOLA’s latest on Latin America. Explore our research and advocacy work promoting human rights and strengthening US-Latin American relations.
Our mission is to advance human rights and social justice in the Americas.
Analysis
Gain a deeper understanding of human rights advocacy and democracy in Latin America through our expert analyses. Explore insights into regional policies, U.S.-Latin America relations, and trends shaping a just, equitable future.
OUR STAFF ARE LEADING EXPERTS ON LATIN AMERICA
Meet our team of experts who bring unparalleled knowledge and experience to our mission of promoting human rights, democracy, and justice in Latin America.
PRIORITIES
At WOLA, we believe in the power of human rights to unite people, uphold dignity, and drive justice. Our priorities guide our approach to advocating for U.S and regional policies that prioritize human rights as a foundation for a just and sustainable future for Latin America.
Inclusive Democracy Supported by a Vibrant Civil Society
At WOLA, we support efforts to make democracy in Latin America inclusive, diverse, and accountable. A thriving civil society is essential to ensuring democratic resilience, while countering authoritarianism and anti-democratic practices is key to safeguarding the region’s future. We advocate for a consistent U.S. foreign policy that reinforces democratic institutions, protects civic space, and upholds the rule of law, especially in the face of rising threats to human rights and shared prosperity. We urge governments in the region to adopt policies in line with these priorities. Read our research on fostering inclusive democracy and vibrant civil societies.
Security and Peace Rooted in Justice
WOLA advocates for U.S. and regional policies that strengthen institutions’ ability to protect people facing insecurity, corruption, and violence, including those impacted by transnational criminal organizations and the illicit drug trade. Central to our efforts is the promotion of peaceful transitions, judicial independence, and accountability. Explore our publications on promoting security and peace through justice.
Equity Amidst the Climate Crisis, Gender Inequality, and Migration
WOLA is committed to addressing the intertwined challenges of systemic discrimination, inequality, climate change, and migration. Ensuring human dignity and justice requires bold action and advocacy centered on those most affected by these challenges. We strive to influence U.S. policy and international efforts to create sustainable and equitable solutions that protect vulnerable populations and drive systemic change. Discover our analyses on achieving equity in the face of climate change, gender inequality, and migration.
Upcoming Events
Hear from human rights defenders, experts and civil society representatives and engage in panels on U.S-Latin America relations.
There are no upcoming events scheduled soon. Be sure to check out all our past events.
Updates
Stay up to date on the latest on democracy, peace and security, gender and racial justice and more.
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Justice for Colombia’s Sara Millerey
On April 7, Sara Millerey González, a 32-year-old transgender woman, was thrown into the Playa Rica River in Antioquia, Colombia….
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Weekly U.S.-Mexico Border Update: Supreme Court, El Salvador Renditions, Mass Deportation
With this series of weekly updates, WOLA seeks to cover the most important developments at the U.S.-Mexico border. See past…
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Colombia: Urgent Updates
On this page, you’ll find the latest updates on Colombia and the current security situation as of March 2025. WOLA…
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Guatemala’s Public Prosecutor’s Office Must Cease Intimidation of the Media and Respect Freedom of the Press
Washington, D.C., April 8, 2025 The undersigned organizations condemn the disinformation campaign and unfounded criminalization against the media outlets Prensa…
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Solidarity with Those Fighting for Peace and Coexistence in Buenaventura
April 8, 2025 We strongly condemn the wave of violence that overtook the port city of Buenaventura on the weekend…
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Weekly U.S.-Mexico Border Update: El Salvador Renditions, Budget, Military Role, March Migration
With this series of weekly updates, WOLA seeks to cover the most important developments at the U.S.-Mexico border. See past…
Celebrate WOLA’s 50th Anniversary!
Join us in honoring our past, present, and future with a year of special events and commemorations.
Multimedia
Explore WOLA’s multimedia collection of videos and podcasts on human rights, social justice, democracy, and other critical issues. Discover the stories that drive our mission.
Carolina Jiménez Sandoval, PBS News Weekend
Maureen Meyer, ProPublica
