Western Hemisphere Programs
DRL currently supports over 20 democracy, human rights, and labor programs in the Western Hemisphere. Current funding for DRL programs in WHA exceeds $25 million. Program topics include forensic assistance, labor union strengthening, increasing civic participation of indigenous groups, and supporting free press.
One DRL forensic assistance program in South and Central America seeks to increase the capacity of indigenous organizations to conduct timely and reliable DNA testing, furthering the processes of reconciliation and access to justice in Guatemala and Peru. In Guatemala, this program works to collect population reference samples in order to identify remains, including samples from approximately nine indigenous groups. A public awareness campaign will accompany the sample collection. In Peru, the program seeks to increase capacity to collect and process forensic data to contribute to resolving cases of disappeared, including training officials in DNA sampling. The program will also establish a Regional Office of Missing Persons to provide legal and psychological support for victims' families.
Select a countryfrom the map to read about specific programs: 
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