General Secretariat

Definition

The General Secretariat is the executive arm of the Organization of American States (OAS), responsible for implementing its policies and carrying out its day-to-day functions. This body plays a vital role in facilitating cooperation among member states, managing the organization’s resources, and ensuring effective communication between the OAS and its various entities. The General Secretariat is headed by a Secretary General, who is elected to provide leadership and guidance in fulfilling the OAS's mission of promoting democracy, human rights, and development across the Americas.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The General Secretariat was established in 1948 as part of the founding of the OAS and has been central to its operations since.
2. It is headquartered in Washington D.C., which allows it to maintain close ties with both member states and other international organizations.
3. The Secretary General serves a five-year term and can be re-elected for additional terms, providing continuity in leadership.
4. The General Secretariat also plays a significant role in organizing meetings, conferences, and summits among member states to discuss pressing regional issues.
5. It has specialized departments focused on specific areas such as human rights, security, and development to ensure comprehensive support for member nations.

Review Questions

• How does the General Secretariat support the mission of the Organization of American States?
  • The General Secretariat supports the mission of the OAS by implementing policies that promote democracy, human rights, and development throughout the Americas. It facilitates communication among member states and coordinates efforts to address regional challenges. By managing resources and organizing various meetings and initiatives, it ensures that member countries can collaborate effectively towards common goals.
• Discuss the relationship between the General Secretariat and other OAS bodies like CIDI in promoting regional development.
  • The General Secretariat collaborates closely with other OAS bodies, such as the Inter-American Council for Integral Development (CIDI), to enhance regional development initiatives. While CIDI focuses on fostering economic and social progress among member states, the General Secretariat provides essential administrative support, coordination, and resources to implement CIDI's programs. This partnership strengthens the OAS’s capacity to address developmental challenges effectively.
• Evaluate the impact of leadership changes within the General Secretariat on the effectiveness of OAS initiatives in addressing political crises in member states.
  • Leadership changes within the General Secretariat can significantly impact OAS initiatives aimed at addressing political crises. A new Secretary General may bring different priorities or approaches to conflict resolution and diplomacy. This can affect how effectively the OAS responds to urgent situations in member states. Additionally, continuity or disruption in leadership can influence relationships with member countries and their willingness to cooperate with OAS interventions during political turmoil.

Related terms

Secretary General: The head of the General Secretariat, responsible for overseeing the organization's operations and representing the OAS in international matters.

Inter-American Council for Integral Development (CIDI): A key OAS body focused on promoting economic, social, and cultural development among member states, which the General Secretariat supports.

OAS Charter: The foundational document that outlines the principles and purposes of the Organization of American States, under which the General Secretariat operates.