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

Video Podcast with Security Expert Leticia Salomón: Crime and Police Corruption in Honduras

12 Apr 2012
Video
In this WOLA video podcast, Leticia Salomón gives a panorama of the security challenges facing Honduras. She describes the Commission for the Reform of Public Security and how its work could help address underlying problems of police corruption, impunity, and institutional weakness in the country.

Public Security Challenges in El Salvador Today

Comments by Rep. James McGovern
19 Apr 2012
Analysis & Commentary
In remarks at a recent forum on El Salvador sponsored by WOLA and the Moakley Institute at Suffolk University, Rep. James McGovern (D-MA) spoke about the public security crisis in El Salvador today, and what needs to be done to address the institutional challenges.

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
Publication
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 & Analysis

Summit of the Americas: Walking the Walk on Partnership

5 Apr 2012
Analysis & Commentary
The presidents of the Americas (with some notable exceptions) will gather once again later this month. President Obama will likely again focus on partnership, engagement, and co-responsibility. These are the right ideas, and they can revolutionize our relationship with the hemisphere.

Police Strikes in Brazil Evidence of Deeper Structural Problems

10 Feb 2012
Analysis & Commentary
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
Analysis & Commentary
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.

WOLA: Promoting Human Rights, Democracy, and Social Justice

22 Dec 2011
Video
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.
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Experts

Geoff Thale

Program Director

Adriana Beltrán

Senior Associate for Citizen Security