OAS General Secretariat Reaffirms Commitment to Democracy in Bolivia and Its Elected Leadership

Press Release

OAS General Secretariat Reaffirms Commitment to Democracy in Bolivia and Its Elected Leadership

The General Secretariat of the Organization of American States (GS/OAS) reiterates its firm and unequivocal support for Bolivian democracy, and the constitutionally elected authorities of the Plurinational State of Bolivia. Respect for constitutional order and democratic institutions is essential to preserve the democratic tradition of the region, ensure stability, and preserve the rule of law in the country. Protecting Bolivian democracy is protecting democracy in the Americas.

Ahead of the OAS General Assembly in Panama City, Panama, Bolivian Foreign Minister Fernando Aramayo and OAS Secretary General Albert R. Ramdin had a productive and forward looking meeting regarding recent developments in Bolivia.
The General Secretariat condemns recent blockages that impact the movement of necessary and urgent goods and services, including fuel, medicines, and other needs of the people.

Furthermore, it reaffirms its steadfast commitment to the protection of fundamental rights, including freedom of expression and the right to peaceful protest. At the same time, the institution underscores that actions that obstruct the circulation of essential goods, services, and humanitarian assistance undermine the rights of the population and should not be considered acceptable forms of protest.

In this context, the General Secretariat reiterates its readiness to cooperate with the Bolivian authorities and people in support of democratic governance. As agreed with Bolivian authorities, a technical fact-finding mission will deploy within the next weeks, to be followed by a high-level political mission at a time agreed with Bolivian authorities, aimed at assessing the situation on the ground, reaffirming the value of dialogue as a mechanism to resolve differences, and supporting efforts to preserve institutional stability, democratic order, and the well-being of all Bolivians.

Reference: E-076/26