Last post covered the new US/Venezuela brouhaha, with the OAS as sparring ground, but it occurred to me, what is exactly is the OAS? I try to answer this question below.
What is the OAS?
The OAS is the abbreviation of the Organization of American States. It is an international regional organization comprised of 35 countries from the western hemisphere (the Americas).
When was the OAS founded?
It was founded in 1890 as the International Union of American Republics, and then became the Pan American Union in 1910. The organization adopted its current name in 1948 under the OAS charter in Bogotá, Colombia.
Why does it exist?
The OAS is essentially a forum for dialogue. It exists to advance regional harmony. It’s stated goals are to:
1. Strengthen peace and security;
2. Promote representative democracy, while respecting the principle of non-intervention;
3. Ensure peaceful settlement of inter-state disputes;
4. Provide unified action in confronting aggression;
5. Seek solution to political, juridical, and economic problems that may arise;
6. Promote economic social and cultural development;
7. Eradicate extreme poverty;
8. Limit conventional weapons.
How does it work?
Each member state has an ambassador to the organization’s General Assembly. Foreign Ministers from the member states also meet once a year, the US government sends its Secretary of State, currently Condoleeza Rice.
The current Secretary General of the OAS is Chilean José Miguel Insulza
Although the organization consists of 35 countries, only 34 take part. Cuba, while still a member, is excluded due to its non-democratic government.
What Powers does the OAS have?
Really, not much. From my digging it looks to be a pretty weak institution. The OAS passes resolutions, but does not have any real authority.
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