OAS Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression

Description

The SRFOE is the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights’ special office for freedom of expression in the Americas. It is part of the Organization of American States and was created to defend freedom of thought and expression across the hemisphere.

It was established in 1997 by the IACHR to monitor OAS member states’ compliance with the American Convention on Human Rights on freedom of expression. It analyses complaints of free-expression violations, advises the Commission on cases, and requests precautionary measures to protect journalists and others facing threats.

When it finds a serious violation, the rapporteur issues press releases, raises concerns with the authorities and makes recommendations, and in other cases contacts governments directly to seek information or redress. It also recommends legal reforms, promotes freedom of expression through education and training, and conducts fact-finding missions into reported abuses.

Each year the office publishes an annual report on the state of press freedom and freedom of expression across the Americas, along with thematic reports on topics such as digital surveillance and hate speech. It is one of four international mechanisms for promoting freedom of expression alongside similar UN, OSCE and African Commission rapporteurs, with whom it issues a joint declaration each year.