Latin Evangelical Alliance Adopts New Transparency and Governance Standards

The Latin Evangelical Alliance (AEL) has officially adopted the Costa Rica Commitment, a framework designed to enhance governance, financial accountability, and ethical standards across its member organizations. The agreement was ratified during the alliance's 13th General Assembly, which took place from October 12 to 16 in San José, Costa Rica. The AEL represents 25 evangelical organizations spanning 22 countries, including nations in Latin America, Spain, and the United States.

The commitment outlines five core principles: maintaining updated governing documents, ensuring clear decision-making procedures, practicing financial transparency through certified organizations, implementing ethics and safeguarding policies, and committing to ongoing organizational improvement. A significant focus of the initiative is the protection of individuals, with specific requirements for sexual abuse prevention policies and the establishment of formal reporting channels.

AEL President Juan Cruz Cellammare stated that the initiative is intended to strengthen the organization's Christian witness rather than address existing failures. To assist member bodies in implementing these standards, the AEL plans to provide access to technical experts and a centralized digital document registry.