This discussion paper analyzes Resolution 2/22 of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR), whose purpose is to clarify the scope of reasoned votes issued by its members. Among other controversial aspects, the resolution authorizes the publication of such votes in country and thematic reports, breaking with decades of institutional practice that had restricted this possibility to reports on contentious cases.
The paper brings together legal, political, and institutional arguments that invite reflection on the advisability of limiting the publication of these votes to decisions on petitions and cases, as is the practice in other bodies with mandates similar to that of the IACHR within the universal and African human rights systems. It also identifies certain ambiguities in Resolution 2/22 and proposes deliberative premises aimed at strengthening consensus in the adoption of country and thematic reports.
This is the first in a series of discussion papers that DPLF will publish with the aim of fostering specialized debate on relevant pronouncements, as well as on the institutional policies and practices of the bodies of the Inter-American Human Rights System. This new series reaffirms DPLF’s commitment to promoting standards and effective responses under international law to situations that affect the enjoyment of human rights and the rule of law in Latin America and the Caribbean. Critical and rigorous reflection on the pronouncements of the organs of the Inter-American System is essential to advancing this goal.
