| ABOUT DPLF
From a regional and collaborative perspective, we develop analyses, proposals, and advocacy initiatives aimed at promoting justice, democracy, and the protection of human rights.
We are a regional organization comprised of professionals from various nationalities, with a mandate to promote human rights and the rule of law in Latin America through applied research, strategic alliances, experience sharing, and advocacy actions.
We envision a Latin America where civil society, using national and international law, fully participates in strengthening the rule of law, and where judicial institutions are independent, transparent, accessible, and aware of their role in reinforcing democracy.
DPLF was founded in 1996 by Thomas Buergenthal, former President of the Inter-American Court of Human Rights, judge of the International Court of Justice, and Chair of the United Nation’s Truth Commission for El Salvador, with the goal of promoting strong and independent justice systems.
Since its inception, DPLF has advocated for the adherence to international human rights standards and the use of Inter-American law to improve legal frameworks, jurisprudence, public policies, and State practices across Latin America.
We aim to strengthen justice systems in Latin America to ensure they are more independent, transparent, equitable, and accessible. Additionally, we promote accountability and contribute to combating impunity. We believe in a horizontal and collaborative approach, working alongside robust, active, and supportive civil society organizations to achieve just and democratic societies.
To strengthen justice systems in Latin America, we believe it is essential to combine technical knowledge with a people-centered approach. Therefore, our work is grounded in three key pillars:
We provide answers grounded in international law to situations affecting the enjoyment of human rights and the rule of law in the region.
We foster partnerships between local and regional organizations to amplify the impact of the initiatives.
We engage in advocacy before international bodies and national authorities to promote the implementation of human rights standards.
DPLF works across four programmatic areas that respond to key challenges for democracy, justice, accountability, and human rights in Latin America:
Across each of our programmatic areas, we address challenges that cut across the region and directly affect democracy and the enjoyment of human rights:
Authoritarianism and Democratic Backsliding
Public Security and the Fight Against Organized Crime
Gender and Justice
Civic Space and Human Rights Defenders
