The Organization of American States (OAS)

Canada joined the Organization of American States (OAS) as a Permanent Observer in 1972 and became a full member on January 8, 1990. Canada remains fully committed to a strong and effective OAS, which serves as the primary political forum for addressing hemispheric challenges. As part of its deepened engagement in the Americas, Canada will continue to work collaboratively with other OAS members to address key hemispheric issues including, democracy, security and human rights.

Since becoming a full member, Canada has made important contributions to the OAS’s collective achievements. Highlights include the establishment of the Inter-American Democratic Charter, which makes democracy an explicit condition of OAS membership and the elaboration of the Declaration on Security in the Americas, which creates a multidimensional security framework for the region. Canada also promoted the establishment of the Unit for Promotion of Democracy within the OAS as a further means of consolidating democratic principles within the region.