About the OAS

The Organization of American States is the world's oldest regional organization, dating back to the First International Conference of American States, held in Washington, D.C., from October 1889 to April 1890. That meeting approved the establishment of the International Union of American Republics, and the stage was set for the weaving of a web of provisions and institutions that came to be known as the inter-American system, the oldest international institutional system.

Democracy is the cornerstone of the Organization, and therefore strengthening democracy and promoting good governance is one of its main tasks. The OAS plays an important role in resolving disputes among its member states. The Organization's response is prompt, appropriate, and consistent with international and inter-American law.