Dear John,

This week, I had the privilege of giving the opening remarks for a powerful webinar co-hosted by WOLA and the National Security Archive: "Lessons from Latin America as the United States Reckons with Enforced Disappearance." Nearly 500 people joined us to hear from expert panelists who spoke with clarity and urgency about the disturbing parallels between the U.S. government’s current trajectory and what many Latin American nations have lived through in the past. They also spoke about the ways courageous people—activists, families, lawyers, survivors—have come together to resist and respond and what we can learn from them.

Enforced disappearances are alarming, no matter where they happen. As WOLA’s President, I am gravely concerned and as a Venezuelan who has seen firsthand how these practices devastate lives and undermine democracy, this issue feels deeply personal. I recently published an op-ed in El Faro about the U.S. government’s illegal transfer of Venezuelan migrants to El Salvador six weeks ago, arguing that the action may constitute a case of mass enforced disappearance under international law. But more than a crime, it is a warning—about the erosion of democratic values and the abuse of state power.

In these times, WOLA remains steadfast in our commitment to justice and dignity across the hemisphere. We believe that cross-border solidarity is essential, and we continue to learn from the strength and experience of our partners in the region. 

It is heartening to know that so many people are paying attention. We must continue to do so.

Sincerely,

Carolina Jiménez Sandoval

President

For human rights activists across Latin America right now, the stakes are high. Violence around elections is on the rise, as are threats against those who speak in favor of justice and accountability.

Your support of WOLA creates space to amplify the voices of those who put their life on the line to champion human rights; from Caracas, to San Salvador, and everywhere in between.

"[Witnessing the erosion of Venezuela democracy under Chávez] taught me not to believe blindly that institutions can withstand it all. In the development of authoritarianism, what was thought to be unthinkable happens.”

Carolina Jiménez Sandoval

President

– The Washington Post, The U.S. is not Venezuela — but Trump is closing the distance

"Smugglers will adapt [to Trump's crackdown.] They will charge more, they’ll take you through more dangerous places, they’ll guide you with cell phones and drones, they’ll do whatever they can so that their customers can get past. It will be harder, the chance of death is going to be higher because you’re going to be in much more remote and inhospitable areas.”

Adam Isacson

Director for Defense Oversight

– The Times, This city was a border flashpoint. Now the only migrants are quail

"The reduction in support lessens the pressure on the Mexican government to do more to address this disappearance crisis. Weakening forensic efforts in Mexico will reduce the number of investigations into these crimes. This is not just a Mexico issue, US citizens have also disappeared." 

Maureen Meyer

Vice President for Programs

– InSight Crime, Experts Say US Aid Slashes Will Hinder Anti-Drug and Crime Efforts in Latam

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