Who We Are
History
DPLF was founded in 1996 by Professor Thomas Buergenthal and his colleagues from the United Nations Truth Commission for El Salvador, who were convinced that human rights could only be guaranteed by strong and independent national judicial systems. Because of this realization, they created DPLF, an organization dedicated to the promotion of the rule of law and human rights in the Americas’.
Mission
DPLF is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit, nongovernmental organization based in Washington, D.C., working to strengthen the rule of law and promote respect for human rights in Latin America through applied research, strategic alliances with actors in the region, advocacy activities and the effective communication of our message.
Vision
DPLF envisions a Latin America where civil society participates fully in the consolidation of the rule of law - through the use of national and international legal instruments - and where judicial institutions are independent, transparent, accessible, and able to fulfill their role in strengthening democracy.
Values
Respect
DPLF values and takes into account the different perspectives of the people who interact directly and indirectly with the organization.
Commitment
The goal of our work is to achieve full respect for the rule of law and human rights,as enshrined in international norms and standards. We work passionately to achieve our goals and implement our strategies
Proactiveness
We evaluate situations by looking for opportunities for improvement. We make constructive and realistic suggestions about how to address challenges in order to achieve better results.
Rigor
Our work is meticulous and precise; our research, publications, and declarations are reasoned and well-founded.
Constructiveness
DPLF views situations from a perspective of opportunity. We make constructive and realistic suggestions about how to carry out goals and achieve results.
Effectiveness
DPLF optimizes its human and financial resources. We have the capacity to adapt to changing contexts and to make decisions with agility.