Suzanne B. Goldberg, Senior Advisor at the U.S. Department of State, delivered remarks on June 25, 2024, commemorating the 65th anniversary of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR). Goldberg highlighted the significance of this milestone as an opportunity to reflect on past achievements and future commitments to human rights in the Americas.
"The United States proudly supports the IACHR and its vital role in protecting and promoting human rights across the Americas," she stated. She emphasized key issues championed by the IACHR over recent decades, including women's rights, LGBTI+ rights, and freedom of expression.
Goldberg praised the IACHR's involvement in advancing women's rights through cases like that of Maria da Penha from Brazil. The Commission's efforts led to significant legal reforms addressing domestic violence. "The IACHR’s work provides invaluable guidance and inspiration for our own efforts," she noted.
Discussing LGBTI+ rights, Goldberg recognized the establishment of a dedicated unit within the IACHR in 2011 as a major step forward. "We reaffirm our commitment to advancing the rights of LGBTQI+ individuals," she said while acknowledging ongoing challenges.
Freedom of expression was also highlighted as fundamental to advocating for various human rights causes. The Office of the Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression has played a crucial role since its inception in 1997 with strong U.S. support.
Goldberg acknowledged Eleanor Roosevelt and former President Jimmy Carter for their contributions to human rights advocacy within the Inter-American System. She also discussed how IACHR reviews have impacted U.S. policies on issues such as racial justice and immigration.
Reflecting on U.S.-IACHR relations, Goldberg mentioned robust engagement during different administrations and emphasized ongoing cooperation with fact-finding missions by the Commission.
She concluded by expressing continued U.S. support for diverse representation within both IACHR bodies through a proposed General Assembly resolution focused on gender parity and balanced geographic representation.
In her closing remarks, Goldberg underscored President Biden’s foreign policy vision which aligns advocating democracy abroad with demonstrating commitment at home: "We strive to live up to our highest ideals."