Ambassador Francisco O. Mora addressed a special session of the Council, marking the 23rd anniversary of the Inter-American Democratic Charter and the upcoming International Day of Democracy. The session was requested by Chile on behalf of the Voluntary Group for Follow-up to the Inter-American Democratic Charter.
Mora highlighted the significance of September 11, both as a day of tragedy in 2001 and as the date when the Inter-American Democratic Charter was signed in Lima. He noted that this document symbolizes a shared commitment to democratic principles across the Americas.
"The significance of this moment, combined with the International Day of Democracy on September 15, provides us with an important opportunity to reflect on the advances made by OAS Member States in implementing the Inter-American Democratic Charter," Mora stated.
He expressed concern over democratic rights violations in Venezuela, Nicaragua, and Cuba. "In Venezuela, what we are witnessing since the July elections is a manipulation of the democratic process," he said. Mora criticized these countries for using disinformation and censorship to maintain power.
The ambassador emphasized that disinformation poses a threat to democracy and civic space. "Disinformation erodes trust in institutions, undermines public confidence, and weakens democratic governance," he remarked.
Mora announced that the United States has developed a roadmap on information integrity to combat digital disinformation while respecting freedom of expression. He also praised Special Rapporteur Pedro Vaca's work in promoting human rights across the hemisphere.
Efforts are underway through organizations like OAS and its technical agencies to strengthen civic resilience against AI-generated disinformation. Mora stressed that "a thriving democracy also depends on an informed and engaged citizenry."
The U.S. Department of State’s Framework to Counter Foreign State Information Manipulation aims to build international cooperation against foreign disinformation threats. "To date, twenty countries from around the world have endorsed the Framework," Mora noted.
In conclusion, he thanked Chile for convening this session and reiterated commitment to upholding democratic values as enshrined in the Inter-American Democratic Charter.