Supporting Rosa María Payá for the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights

On June 27, member states of the Organization of American States will vote to elect new commissioners to the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR)—a body key in defending human rights and fundamental freedoms in our hemisphere. The United States is proud to have nominated Rosa María Payá for this role.

Rosa María Payá is a principled, courageous, and deeply committed human rights and democracy defender. Her record of fearless leadership and moral clarity—particularly in confronting authoritarianism and promoting democratic values—reflects the very ideals upon which the IACHR was founded. Rosa María brings the dignity and resolve to tackle the Commission’s greatest challenges with innovative solutions all while keeping a focus on serving the people of the Americas. I have full confidence in her ability to make the Commission more effective, efficient, and relevant.

If elected, she will serve our hemisphere with independence, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to justice and accountability. Her voice would strengthen the Commission’s ability to speak out clearly in defense of those facing repression, censorship, and abuse.

The United States urges fellow OAS member states to support Rosa María Payá’s candidacy and help ensure that the IACHR remains a strong, principled, and credible defender of human rights for all.