Open Letter to the OAS Member States: It Is Time to Elect a Woman as the Next Secretary General
In March 2025, the Organization of American States (OAS) will elect a new Secretary General — a decision that will shape the future of this vital regional organization for the next five years. The OAS requires a leader who is unwavering in their commitment to the core values of the Organization, including democracy, peace and security, equality, and human rights. This leader must be a woman.
Since its founding in 1948, every Secretary General and Assistant Secretary General has been male. It is time for the OAS to better reflect the diversity of our societies.
Women have a fundamental right to equality in leadership. Representing over 50% of the region, they bring diverse expertise crucial for the Organization’s effectiveness in fulfilling its mission and core values. Failing to appoint a woman in this election would be a significant missed opportunity to uphold international commitments and strengthen the OAS at a time when the region—and the world—needs it most.
From the GQUAL Campaign, and with the support of more than 200 organizations and prominent individuals from across the region, we sent an Open Letter with the following requests:
- Publicly support the appointment of a woman Secretary General by nominating and voting exclusively for women candidates.
- Ensure a transparent selection procedure, including by establishing a clear timeline, minimum criteria, and opportunities for dialogue.
- Ensure that the next SG upholds the highest standards of personal integrity, professional competence, and a proven commitment to democracy, Inter-American institutions, human rights, and equality for all individuals, including women.
Download the Open Letter here, and share and sign the petition by adding your signature in this Form.
Support continues to grow from organizations and individuals across the region after the letter was sent, highlighting the strong demand for a woman Secretary General dedicated to democracy and human rights. See the additional list of signatories here (we update this periodically).
It is time for the Secretary General of the OAS to be a woman. Help us show States that the region is watching and counting on themto rise to this challenge and lead the change.
#ChangeThePicture #OASMadamSecretary
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