Corruption in Latin America remains a significant obstacle to regional development and stability. Despite efforts to combat it, such as legal reforms and the strengthening of oversight bodies, impunity and a lack of political will continue to be major barriers. Scandals involving high-ranking government officials and private companies undermine public trust in institutions, while the widespread perception of corruption as a systemic problem demoralizes society and discourages citizen participation and activism, further weakening the democratic fabric and efforts to defend human rights across the region.

The outdated notion that corruption is a victimless crime, or that the only victim is the State, is rapidly changing. Increasingly, international organizations and national courts recognize that corruption harms the concrete rights and interests of individuals and communities, thus producing both direct and indirect victims. This recognition is leading to the acknowledgment of these victims’ rights, along with the organizations representing them, to be heard, to participate in investigations and prosecutions of those responsible, and to receive full reparations in cases of corruption.

In line with this, DPLF promotes the exchange of knowledge and best practices between the human rights and anti-corruption movements, providing technical support to share tools for identifying and assessing corruption and advocating for structural reforms across the region. Through detailed research and report publications, we analyze patterns of corruption and impunity, raising awareness within the international community and pressuring governments to take effective action.

Another fundamental aspect of our work is fostering the participation of victims and civil society organizations in criminal proceedings related to corruption, as well as their right to comprehensive reparations. We advocate for the voices of victims to be heard and their rights protected throughout the judicial process. Human rights cannot be respected or upheld in environments where corruption is endemic and carried out with impunity.