The Organization of American States (OAS) held a special meeting on May 30, 2023, to discuss the implementation and challenges of the Inter-American Democratic Charter. The meeting featured remarks from Ambassador Francisco O. Mora, who emphasized the need for effective response and cooperation in addressing regional crises.
Ambassador Mora expressed gratitude for the support from Canada, Peru, Guyana, and Costa Rica in organizing the meeting. He highlighted Secretary of State Blinken's statement from October 2021 in Ecuador: "the common thread that runs through every part of U.S. policy, domestic and foreign, is the need to make democracy work for all people."
Mora underscored recent global events that have put the OAS at the forefront over the past year. He called for renewed focus on implementing and upholding democratic principles amidst increasing authoritarianism.
"We want – we need – the OAS to address democratic backsliding by following through on commitments to make governments serve every citizen," said Mora. He urged governments to prioritize efforts in advancing both the Democratic Charter and the Inter-American Action Plan on Democratic Governance.
During his speech, Mora reiterated Secretary Blinken's call at last year's OAS General Assembly in Lima: "we have to recommit to delivering on the core principles of our OAS and Inter American Democratic Charters." Mora acknowledged ideas proposed at a recent Summit for Democracy co-hosted by President Biden with other nations.
Mora advocated for introducing a mechanism under Article 14 of the Democratic Charter that allows member states to review actions taken by the OAS concerning democracy promotion. He also highlighted discussions over two decades regarding enhancing preventive measures within the organization.
The United States plans to propose several initiatives at next month's General Assembly, including establishing a new reporting mechanism on democracy status, a voluntary peer review process, appointing an independent Special Rapporteur or similar figure, and updating an educational program on democratic values.
"These needed proposals reflect reality," said Mora. He believes these efforts could prevent activating punitive mechanisms under the Democratic Charter while promoting early warning systems for strengthening democracy.
Concluding his remarks, Mora stated that these proposals would enhance advisory services offered by OAS in supporting countries' democratic institutions. "The United States believes strongly that we all benefit from a capable, effective, and responsive OAS," he added.
Finally, he clarified that none of these ideas compromise state sovereignty but rather bolster collective defense of democracy across member states.
In closing statements echoing Secretary Blinken's sentiments: "There’s no threat we face that better democracy cannot fix." The U.S. government looks forward to collaboration with interested delegations during upcoming discussions at this year's General Assembly.