Rosa María Payá, the United States nominee for the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR), addressed the Organization of American States (OAS) Permanent Council on May 14, 2025. In her remarks, she emphasized her commitment to human rights stemming from personal tragedy and a lifelong mission of advocacy.
Payá recounted her entry into human rights work following the murder of her father, Oswaldo Payá, who was killed while defending democratic ideals in Cuba. She stated, "I come to this candidacy not from government, political leanings or ideology, but from a deeply personal experience within the Inter-American Human Rights system."
Throughout her career, Payá has been involved in various initiatives across the Americas. She led a regional network active in 20 countries and contributed to reports and hearings before the IACHR. Her advocacy efforts have extended to institutions such as the U.S. Congress and the United Nations.
If elected to serve on the IACHR, Payá outlined three core priorities: protecting vulnerable populations and upholding democratic values; ensuring a responsive and transparent commission; and expanding the reach of the Inter-American system. She expressed concern over shrinking civic spaces and growing attacks on fundamental freedoms in many regions.
Payá highlighted her belief that justice should be timely and practical while maintaining transparency and accountability. She proposed improving case management through early triage by commissioners and adopting digital tools to streamline processes.
Additionally, she emphasized universalizing access to the Inter-American system by strengthening its presence in underrepresented areas like the English-speaking Caribbean. Payá stressed that "the Commission must systematically engage with the OAS Permanent Council" to address major crises such as Haiti's situation.
Concluding her speech with words from Eleanor Roosevelt about universal human rights beginning "in small places," Payá affirmed her dedication to serving independently with an unwavering commitment to dignity, security, and justice for all individuals.