Advocacy for Human Rights in the Americas
Our Vision
WOLA envisions a future where public policies protect human rights and recognize human dignity, and where justice overcomes violence.
Our Mission
Advancing Human Rights, Democracy, and Justice in Latin America
WOLA is a leading research and advocacy organization advancing human rights in the Americas. We tackle problems that transcend borders and that call for policy solutions both in the U.S. and in countries in Latin America. Through strategic collaborations, we partner with courageous people who are leading change. Together, we advocate for more just, democratic and inclusive societies in the Americas.
Our History
The Founding of The Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA)
In the years leading up to the brutal military coup in Chile on September 11, 1973, faith-based organizations in the United States began to raise the alarm over the increasing number of military coups across Latin America and the severe human rights violations that followed. Protestant and catholic church organizations based in the United States were receiving reports from the field about atrocities being committed by governments in the region—de facto military juntas— that enjoyed the support of officials in Washington.
The coup in Chile transformed the Latin American human rights movement and was a key event for major religious institutions in the United States, including the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and the National Council of Churches.
In 1974, this led to the founding of the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA), an advocacy organization focused on advancing human rights policies in the region. WOLA’s mission was to connect policymakers in Washington with those who had first-hand knowledge of the widespread deaths, disappearances, torture, and unjust imprisonment taking place under the dictatorships of that era.
WOLA’s partners include a diverse group of people and organizations throughout the region who bring courage, commitment and new approaches to emerging issues such as climate change, gender and racial justice, organized crime, increasing rates of violence, and migration trends.
Today, as in the past, WOLA’s work remains deeply committed to human rights, democracy, dignity and justice.
WOLA’s 50th Anniversary
In reaching our remarkable 50th anniversary milestone, the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA) has undergone a transformative journey, growing to meet the challenges of the times and emerging as a crucial force in social justice and human rights advocacy throughout the Americas.
Our Priorities
WOLA responds to the changing dynamics in United States policy and in Latin America. Over the years, WOLA evolved from raising awareness of human rights violations to also providing critical research and policy analysis. We have become a leading human rights advocacy organization by effectively combining strong ties to the region with strategic connections to U.S. and international policymakers. WOLA cooperates with a diverse array of human rights defenders, social justice advocates, and civil society organizations. Through WOLA’s work in Washington and in Latin America, we collaborate in developing strategies to amplify these voices and propose effective policy solutions.
Today WOLA addresses contemporary human rights challenges with research, advocacy and strategic initiatives in these priority areas:
Meet our staff
Behind our success is a dedicated team committed to making a difference. Meet our experts.
Advocate for Change Alongside WOLA
Support WOLA’s vital work for human rights, democracy, and justice in the Americas! As an independent non-governmental organization, we rely on contributions from foundations and individuals like you to support our work. Your donation helps us drive change.
Join us in championing human rights in the Americas!
Together, we can shape a brighter future for Latin America.
