The Secretary of State Marco Rubio congratulated Cuban activist Rosa María Payá this Friday after she was elected as a member of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR), an autonomous body of the Organization of American States (OAS) responsible for promoting and protecting human rights on the continent.

“Congratulations to @PayaIACHR, who has just been elected to @IACHumanRights. Payá’s voice and tireless advocacy for freedom, democracy, and human rights in our region are more necessary than ever,” wrote the Cuban-American official on his official X account (formerly Twitter).

The election of Rosa María Payá as a commissioner represents a significant event in the regional context, given her background as a human rights advocate and promoter of democracy in Cuba.

Daughter of the dissident Oswaldo Payá, the activist has gained international recognition for her leadership in initiatives such as Cuba Decide, a platform that promotes a democratic transition on the island.

Days before the election, Rubio—who promoted his candidacy for the position representing the United States—had expressed his support for the young exile.

She was described as a “steadfast advocate for democracy,” and it was asserted that her moral vision would “enhance the effectiveness and responsiveness” of the IACHR.

“I urge the member states of @OAS_official to support his candidacy,” he wrote on June 18, highlighting the importance of his role at a critical time for human rights in the region.

Payá’s election to the CIDH is also seen as a milestone within the Cuban exile community and Latin American pro-democracy movements, as for the first time a dissident figure from Castroism will hold a high-profile position within a key institution of the inter-American system.

Various human rights organizations have welcomed the election, believing that their presence in the body will strengthen international pressure on authoritarian regimes and give a voice to the victims of political repression on the island.

Frequently Asked Questions about Rosa María Payá’s Election to the IACHR

Why is Rosa María Payá’s appointment as commissioner of the IACHR significant?

The election of Rosa María Payá is significant because it is the first time a dissident figure from the Cuban regime holds a position in the CIDH, which marks a milestone for the Cuban exile community and pro-democracy movements in Latin America. Her appointment strengthens international pressure on authoritarian regimes and gives a voice to the victims of political repression in Cuba.

What role does the IACHR play in the protection of human rights in the Americas?

The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) is an autonomous body of the Organization of American States (OAS) responsible for promoting and protecting human rights in the Americas. It oversees the human rights situation in member states, issues reports, precautionary measures, and recommendations to governments.

What initiatives has Rosa María Payá led in favor of democracy in Cuba?

Rosa María Payá is the founder of the Cuba Decide movement, which promotes a binding referendum for Cubans to freely and democratically choose their political future. She also leads the Pan American Democracy Foundation and has been an active voice in international forums defending human rights.

How has the Cuban regime reacted to Payá’s election to the IACHR?

The Cuban regime has labeled Rosa María Payá as a “mercenary” following her selection as a commissioner of the IACHR, accusing the United States of exerting pressure for her appointment. The Cuban government questions Payá’s independence and criticizes both the IACHR and the OAS for their alleged lack of legitimacy and authority over Cuban sovereignty.