Latin American Civil Society Discuss Critical Issues in Cancun, Mexico

During the week of June 18, 2017, the World Movement for Democracy co-organized two sessions with the Latin American and Caribbean Network for Democracy (REDLAD) entitled “Shrinking Space for Civil Society” and “Engaging with the Business Sector in Policy Advocacy.” The sessions were part of REDLAD’s larger regional meeting, and highlighted the need for activists to collaborate with a wider variety of partners, particularly in the business sector; to fight against restrictions on civil society’s ability to access funding; and to protect cyberspace.

Throughout the same week, the Latin American Youth Network for Democracy (JuventudLAC) met with political leaders including former Mexican President Felipe Calderón, former Panamanian President Nicolas Ardito Barletta, and Organization of American States (OAS) Secretary General Luis Almagro to discuss regional solidarity for political prisoners in Cuba and Venezuela. They shared practical lessons for strengthening the rule of law, as well as address security concerns in dealing with organized crimes.

The events were organized around the OAS General Assembly in Cancun, Mexico. Click here to see pictures of REDLAD and JuventudLAC’s events.