The Central America Research Alliance (CARA) informs policies and initiatives through research on the root causes of migration—poverty, violence, climate change and related human rights issues—across El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Panama, and Nicaragua. Multiple factors, including gender, gang violence. and corruption, influence these systemic challenges, making thorough research essential. Research in this and other important issues, however, is of little use if it is not communicated to activists, policymakers, donors, and other actors who can use it to advocate and plan for improved living conditions.
That is why, through deep collaboration with local partners, CARA plays a vital role in creating spaces to discuss academic freedom and advocating on behalf of safe environments for research. And by advocating for inclusive research practices and disseminating their findings widely, CARA works at the forefront of promoting stability and opportunity across the region.
Originally published in the Pulte Institute 2023-24 Annual Review.