PAOLA - Latin America Program of Affiliated Organizations

About the program

Since 2019, KIC, together with the local partner Cultura Democrática Asociación Civil, has been running the regional multi-party program PAOLA (Political party Affiliated Organisations in Latin America), in close collaboration with the Olof Palme International Center (OPC), the Swedish International Liberal Center (SILC), and their partner organizations in Latin America.

The program operates in Argentina, Bolivia, Nicaragua, Paraguay, Peru, and Venezuela, aiming to strengthen democracy in a region threatened by multiple converging forces. Criminal organizations finance politicians to buy influence and impunity. Corruption and authoritarian tendencies weaken institutions, while social media amplifies polarization and disinformation, locking people into extreme views.

PAOLA addresses these challenges by enabling political parties and organizations to develop strategies and political skills, increase the influence of women and youth in decision-making positions, and promote collaboration and strategic alliances. The program is mainly implemented through political academies at national and regional levels, serving as platforms for capacity building, policy development, and experience-sharing. Special focus is placed on equipping young people—especially women—to grow both as individuals and leaders, and to make decisions based on facts and values rather than short-term pressures or external influences.

For many parties and movements in the region, PAOLA has become a lifeline and a crucial resource in the struggle to uphold democratic principles in an increasingly challenging political climate.