Laura Gil Makes History as First Female OAS General Undersecretary
Table of Contents
A Historic Milestone for the OAS
In a landmark decision, the Organization of American States (OAS) has elected Colombian diplomat Laura Gil as its General Undersecretary.This marks the first time in the organization’s history that a woman has held this crucial position,effectively shattering a long-standing glass ceiling.
The election Process and Gil’s Victory
Gil secured her victory in the second round of voting, garnering 19 votes from the 34 member states with voting rights, surpassing the required 18 votes. She competed against two other accomplished women: Ana María Sánchez of peru and Claudia Escobar of Guatemala. In the initial round, the voting was closely contested, but Gil ultimately prevailed over Sánchez in the decisive second round with a vote of 19 to 13.
Gil’s Vision for the OAS
In her acceptance speech, delivered in Spanish, English, and French, Gil emphasized her commitment to independence and adherence to the OAS’s mandates. More than anything I give you my independence… Nothing above the mandates, nothing below them. I promised so and I will fulfill it,
she stated, signaling her dedication to serving the organization’s objectives impartially.
Responsibilities of the General Undersecretary
The General Undersecretary is a five-year term, renewable once, and plays a pivotal role in the OAS’s operations.The role encompasses a broad range of responsibilities, including addressing social, political, and economic issues, coordinating activities, participating in key decision-making processes, and leading diplomatic missions to OAS member countries. This position is second in command, and the Undersecretary can assume the functions of the Secretary General in their absence.
Transition and Future Collaboration
Gil is set to succeed Néstor Méndez on July 17, 2025, and will collaborate with the newly elected Secretary General, Albert Ramdin of Suriname, who was chosen in March. Ramdin will take over from Luis Almagro of Uruguay, whose term concludes on May 25. Almagro praised Gil’s “spirit” and “autonomous analysis” during his final general assembly.
Reactions and Significance
The selection of a woman for this key position was met with widespread acclaim. Representatives from member countries frequently used terms like “parity,” “equality,” and “gender equity” to describe the historic significance of the day. This appointment is viewed as a crucial step forward for the OAS, the oldest regional body in the world, in promoting gender equality within its leadership.
US Priorities and Perspectives
While the United States did not publicly endorse any of the three candidates, its interim representative, Thomas R.Hastings, highlighted migration as a key priority for the US government. Hastings emphasized the need for “continuous cooperation” to secure borders and ensure the acceptance of repatriated migrants. He also advocated for “effective visa systems” and efforts to “improve economic conditions for citizens to prosper in their own communities.”