ABSTRACT
The Inter-American system, which dates back to the First International Conference of American States in 1890, was consolidated, strengthened, and recreated as the Organization of American States (OAS) in 1948. This chapter reviews the role of the OAS with respect to human rights in the Caribbean. It provides an introduction to the Inter-American human rights system, its mandate, functions, and activities. The chapter covers three specific cases that illustrate the various types and levels of OAS involvement in the Caribbean: Grenada, Suriname, and Haiti. Decolonization in the Caribbean region occurred largely in the context of declared acceptance of parliamentary democracy and respect for democratic institutions and ideals—with respect for civil and political rights expressed as the counterpart of this political-institutional framework. Most Caribbean member states have been very supportive of action by the OAS and the commission in the field of human rights.
