Tom Lersten, the USOAS Political Counselor, addressed a joint meeting of the Inter-American Council for Integral Development and the Permanent Council on August 30, 2023. The focus was on "Tools for the Development and Strengthening of Economic, Social, Cultural, and Environmental Rights" in the Americas.
Lersten emphasized the United States' commitment to addressing economic, social, cultural, and environmental needs through effective public policies. He quoted President Biden's statement that U.S. policy aims to "pursue a comprehensive approach to advancing equity for all ... Affirmatively advancing equity, civil rights, racial justice, and equal opportunity is the responsibility of the whole of our Government."
He acknowledged recent visits by Soledad García Muñoz from the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights concerning issues like homelessness and climate change. Lersten encouraged other OAS member states to welcome similar visits.
Despite not being party to certain international covenants on economic and social rights, Lersten stated that discussions are approached with an understanding of state obligations. He highlighted ongoing efforts at OAS to promote equity through various initiatives.
Achievements supported by OAS include prosperity advancements in Northern Central America and recovery efforts in Haiti. Environmental rights were also stressed as important by Lersten. He noted U.S. commitments to combat climate change and raise global ambition for emission reductions.
The counselor underscored strong domestic environmental laws' role in achieving a healthy environment while expressing openness to work with UN and OAS member states on these matters.
In conclusion, Lersten reiterated support for aims set out in international protocols related to economic and social rights while highlighting domestic legislation such as The Clean Water Act as reflective of these goals.