In the OAS committee, all is tense yet purposeful as delegates concentrate on one of the region’s most pressing humanitarian issues: protecting the rights of migrants and refugees in the Americas. A unified front emerges early between Panama, Cuba, Colombia, and Ecuador, who align under a shared goal of prioritizing human dignity. This bloc focuses on humanitarian aid, “allocating funds for border medical services, establishing shelters, and training immigration officers to uphold ethical standards.” It is quite straightforward. 

Meanwhile, a larger coalition comprising Brazil, Venezuela, Haiti, Canada, Chile, and Mexico advocates for a broader approach centered on HOST responsibility. In other words, streamlining the migrant process: “ensuring access to employment, public services, food, and shelter.” Specifically to high-risk transit zones like the Darién Gap between Colombia and Panama, this bloc’s policies want not only to address borders but throughout the resettlement journey.

A third bloc is more cautious: trying to balance national sovereignty with migrant welfare. Composed of the United States, Costa Rica, Argentina, El Salvador, and Jamaica, they argue that governments should prioritize civilian welfare. The U.S. is slightly isolated, advocating a position where citizens’ needs take precedence.

The Deputy Chair instigated by yours truly, steps in, attempting to “instigate movement” among delegates who seem to have similar resolutions. Differences in focus, from border safety, host-country integration to sovereignty, prevent full consensus. The unmoderated caucus slowly draws to a close. And many questions ominously remain.

Author: Mandy Zhao