IACHR announces ex officio hearing as part of its 193rd Period of Sessions

June 13, 2025

Washington, DC—The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) will hold its 193rd Ordinary Period of Sessions between July 14 and 25, 2025. Online public hearings will take place during the second week, from July 21 to 25. As part of this second week of hearings, the IACHR is convening an ex officio regional thematic hearing on the following issue:

Methane reduction and waste pickers: ESCERs and the climate emergency

This regional thematic hearing will be held on Thursday, July 24, from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. (Washington, DC, time). It will address the situation of waste pickers and efforts to reduce methane emissions in Latin America and the Caribbean, within the broader context of the global climate emergency.

The purpose of this hearing is to create a regional space for active listening and broad consultation with waste picker organizations, climate change experts, and State representatives. The goal is to advance the development of inter-American standards and formulate concrete recommendations for the design of inclusive public policies on these issues.

Anyone interested in participating in the ex officio public hearing must register through the electronic system (available in Spanish and English) by June 23 at 11:59 p.m. (Washington, DC, time). In accordance with article 66 of the IACHR Rules of Procedure, applicants must provide their identification details and explain why they wish to take part in the hearing.

The IACHR will publish the list of individuals, organizations, and institutions selected to take part in the hearing in due course. Those not selected to speak are encouraged to submit relevant written documentation and information on the topics to be discussed.

The IACHR is a principal and autonomous body of the Organization of American States (OAS), whose mandate stems from the OAS Charter and the American Convention on Human Rights. The Inter-American Commission has the mandate to promote the observance and defense of human rights in the region and acts as an advisory body to the OAS on the matter. The IACHR is made up of seven independent members who are elected by the OAS General Assembly in their personal capacity, and do not represent their countries of origin or residence.

No. 121/25

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