IACHR Renews the Mandate of its Executive Secretary, Tania Reneaum Panszi

November 27, 2024

Washington, D.C. - The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) announces the renewal of the mandate of the Executive Secretary, Tania Reneaum Panszi, for an additional period of 4 years, until May 31, 2029.

The proposal for renewal was adopted in accordance with Article 11, paragraph 3, of the Rules of Procedure of the Inter-American Commission, by an absolute majority of votes. It was subsequently submitted to the Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), Luis Almagro, who proceeded with the designation for the new term, as provided for in Article 21 of the Statute of the Commission.

The IACHR's decision is in recognition of Tania Reneaum Panzi's work as Executive Secretary in her first 4 years in office, in which she has demonstrated an effective leadership and proficient management capacity; and in the conviction that her reappointment will contribute to maintaining stability and continuity in the IACHR, which are essential for the promotion of the institutional achievements.

It should be noted that under the lead of Tania Reneaum Panszi, the institution made significant progress in strengthening efficiency and effectiveness, through strategic operational and fiscal management. She facilitated the introduction of the GAIA system, which improved transparency, efficiency, and timeliness in the processing of petitions, cases, and precautionary measures.

This, combined with a recently implemented prioritization policy, has helped reduce procedural backlogs and allowed for a record number of Friendly Settlement Agreements and the completion of merit reports. In addition, precautionary measures have safeguarded thousands of people from vulnerable groups. The Executive Secretary also advanced the mandate of the Commission through the management of country visits, fostering dialogue and technical support to member states.

Internally, through the initiative of Executive Secretary Tania Reneaum, the Co-Labora Program, which is ongoing, is contributing to a work culture of collaboration and productive team dynamics. Under her guidance, the Commission's commitment to transparency, accountability, and regulatory integrity is well demonstrated.

The IACHR is a principal and autonomous organ of the Organization of American States (OAS), whose mandate derives from the OAS Charter and the American Convention on Human Rights. The Inter-American Commission has the mandate to promote the observance and defense of human rights in the region and acts as an advisory body to the OAS on the matter. The IACHR is composed of seven independent members who are elected by the OAS General Assembly in their personal capacity, and who do not represent their countries of origin or residence.

No. 294/24

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