PRESS RELEASE

No.  23/03

IACHR WORKING VISIT TO THE ARGENTINE REPUBLIC

          At the invitation of the Argentine Republic, a delegation from the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) will pay a working visit to Argentina from August 25 to September 1, 2003.  The IACHR delegation will consist of Professor Robert K. Goldman, member of the Commission and Rapporteur for Argentina; Dr. Santiago A. Canton, Executive Secretary of the Commission; and Dr. Elizabeth Abi-Mershed, attorney for the Commission.

The purpose of the visit is to hold working meetings on specific cases being processed by the Commission, to examine the human rights situation in the country, and to conduct activities aimed at promoting the inter-American human rights system.  The program of activities includes, in particular, meetings on cases in which the friendly settlement procedure is under way, with the participation of competent authorities and the respective petitioners and family members of victims.  During its stay, the IACHR delegation will meet with government officials and with representatives of different sectors of civil society in Buenos Aires and Santiago del Estero.

The Commission is a principal organ of the OAS, charged with protecting, defending, and promoting human rights in the Americas.  The Commission derives its power mainly from the OAS Charter and the American Convention on Human Rights, both of which were ratified by the Argentine Republic.  It is composed of seven commissioners, who are elected in their personal capacity by the OAS General Assembly and do not represent their countries of origin or residence.

The Commission wishes to acknowledge and express its appreciation for the cooperation and the facilities extended by the Government of Argentina, nongovernmental organizations, and other civil society institutions in the planning and execution of this visit.

Washington, D.C., August 25, 2003