Marion Bethel Elected IACHR Commissioner

Nassau, The Bahamas – July 8, 2025 — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is pleased to announce the election of Bahamian attorney and human rights advocate Marion Bethel as a Commissioner of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR), marking a historic first for The Bahamas. Bethel was elected during the 55th General Assembly of the Organization of American States (OAS) on Friday, June 27, 2025, in St. John’s, Antigua https://www.admission.sscollegejehanabad.org/ and Barbuda and will serve from 2026 to 2029.

Ms. Bethel at the OAS General Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland

The OAS, founded in 1948, is the oldest regional political organization in the world. With 35 independent member states, it is committed to promoting democracy, human rights, security, and development across the Americas. Embedded in the OAS Charter is a foundational commitment to the “fundamental rights of the individual”, underlining the organization’s dedication to human dignity and justice.

The IACHR, created in 1959 and headquartered in Washington, D.C., is a principal and autonomous organ of the OAS. Its mandate is to promote and protect human rights in the Western Hemisphere through three main pillars:

• The Individual Petition System, which allows individuals to bring human rights complaints directly to the Commission;
• Monitoring Human Rights Conditions in OAS member states; and
• Focusing on Priority Thematic Areas, such as the rights of women, children, Indigenous peoples, Afro-descendants, migrants, and persons with disabilities.

The IACHR works in tandem with the Inter-American Court of Human Rights, forming the cornerstone of the Inter-American Human Rights System (IAHRS)—a critical mechanism for ensuring justice, equality, and rule of law throughout the Americas.

Ms. Bethel, a practicing attorney since 1986, has long been a leading voice for human rights in The Bahamas and the wider Caribbean. She served two terms on the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and was elected Vice-Chairperson and Rapporteur in 2023.

In addition to her legal work, Bethel is also a respected cultural advocate. She directed the award-winning documentary “Womanish Ways: Freedom, Human Rights & Democracy,” chronicling the Bahamian women’s suffrage movement and raising awareness about gender equality.

In accepting her election, Marion Bethel reaffirmed her commitment to the protection of human rights across the hemisphere:

“I am committed to engaging with States parties, non-governmental organisations, and all stakeholders to strengthen our democratic institutions, the rule of law, and compliance with treaty obligations to protect and fulfil human rights. I will bring to the IACHR my dedication to social justice, peace, and security for all, especially marginalized communities.”

Minister of Foreign Affairs Fred Mitchell extended his congratulations, stating: “Ms. Bethel’s election marks a historic milestone for The Bahamas, as no Bahamian has ever before held this position. Her global recognition, deep expertise, and unwavering commitment to justice will undoubtedly make her a valuable asset to the IACHR and strengthen regional human rights law and policy.”

The Ministry also thanks the Permanent Mission of The Bahamas to the OAS and all partners who supported Bethel’s successful candidacy. Her election strengthens both regional representation and The Bahamas’ role in advancing human rights on the international stage.