U.S. Endorses Payá for IACHR

The United States has put forward the candidacy of Rosa María Payá, a well-known cuban dissident and daughter of the late Oswaldo Payá, for a position on the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) for the term spanning 2026-2029. This nomination underscores the U.S.’s commitment to promoting human rights and democratic governance in the Western Hemisphere.

The State Department has lauded Rosa María Payá as a Democracy defender, leader of Human Rights and an expert in Latin American International Policies. Her dedication to advancing freedom,human rights,and democratic principles throughout the Americas has earned her widespread recognition [[1]].

Payá’s Extensive Advocacy and Leadership

Beyond her activism, Payá serves as the executive director of the Foundation for Pan American Democracy, where she actively engages with legislators to bolster regional security, human rights initiatives, and democratic stability. Her work extends to denouncing human rights violations at international forums [[3]].

As the founder of the Cuba Decide institution, Payá spearheads a notable pro-democracy movement within Cuba, advocating for political transformation through a binding plebiscite.This initiative seeks to empower the Cuban people and provide them with a voice in their nation’s future.

Continuing the legacy of her father, Oswaldo Payá, a Sakharov Prize laureate who died in 2012, Rosa María has demonstrated unwavering resolve in the pursuit of freedom. her commitment has been acknowledged through accolades such as the Morris Abram Human Rights Award (2019) and the Common-Sense Society Courage Award (2022).

Payá’s Response and Vision for the IACHR

In a released statement, Payá expressed her gratitude for the nomination and acknowledged the support of U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. She stated:

My father gave his life for freedom and democracy, with the conviction that rights go beyond the borders of politics, race or culture. Like him, I also believe in the universality of the Inter -American Human Rights System and I am ready to serve in the IACHR.

Payá’s words reflect a deep-seated commitment to upholding human rights across all boundaries and a readiness to contribute to the IACHR’s mission.

The Inter-American Commission on Human rights: A Vital Role

The elections for the IACHR will take place during the General Assembly of the Organization of American states (OAS), scheduled to commence on June 27 in Antigua and Barbuda.

The IACHR, an independent and autonomous body, plays a crucial role in promoting and safeguarding human rights within OAS member states. It achieves this through various means, including issuing reports on petitions and cases, and providing recommendations to OAS member states to improve their human rights situations. over the past 65 years, the IACHR has been instrumental in monitoring and supporting the fulfillment of human rights commitments and obligations by OAS member states.

The commission comprises seven human rights experts, each elected in their individual capacity, ensuring political autonomy and objectivity.This independence distinguishes the IACHR as a leading advocate for human rights in the Americas.

Remembering Oswaldo Payá

Oswaldo Payá, the founder of the Christian Liberation Movement, and fellow opposition member Harold Cepero tragically died on July 22, 2012, in a car accident. While initially attributed to reckless homicide, the IACHR concluded in 2023 that the Cuban state was responsible for Payá’s death, citing evidence that state agents deliberately caused the crash.