Latin America and the Caribbean

Ending violence

Violence is endemic in Latin America and the Caribbean. Growing cultures of violence – rooted in poverty, corruption and social inequities – threaten communities, families and children across the region.

In almost all Latin American countries, violence is now among the five main causes of death. Overall, Latin America is home to more murders than anywhere else in the world apart from sub-Saharan Africa . Just as disturbing, no fewer than six million children are subjected to severe aggression in their homes, while another 85,000 are killed every year as a result of family violence.

Violence represents a systematic violation of basic human rights. It damages people's physical, psychological and moral integrity, and denies them opportunities to live in conditions of dignity, security, equality and justice.

The construction of a long-term culture of peace as an alternative to the current culture of violence is one of the most urgent needs in Latin America today. It is a complex task that must be undertaken on at least three fundamental and highly challenging levels: first, responding to the immediate effects of violence; second, transforming structures of poverty and social inequality that sustain and reinforce violence; and third, transforming people's perceptions, values, and behavior.

Through many different actions undertaken in development, advocacy and education, World Vision is committed to stopping violence and assisting those who fall victim to it in their own homes and communities.