The Organization of American States calls Member States to adhere to the Montreux Document

On the 29th of June, the Organization of American States (OAS) reaffirmed its commitment to promoting and strengthening support for the Montreux Document and the International Code of Conduct Association (ICoCA).

The resolution “Advancing Hemispheric Security: A Multidimensional Approach” (AG/CG/doc.3/24) of the OAS’ General Assembly instructs Member States to adhere to the Montreux Document and the International Code of Conduct to disseminate, adhere to, and implement the norms and good practices encompassed in these two international initiatives to enhance the regulation of the private security industry in the region. The General Assembly urges compliance with international norms due to mutual public security concerns among Member States about regulating the role of Private Military and Security Companies (PMSCs) and adhering to existing legal obligations under international law.

The Montreux Document Forum Secretariat reminds States that the Document recalls existing legal obligations and sets forth good practices to regulate PMSCs in armed conflict. However, the Document's scope remains instructive for complex and more stable environments. To support States in their legislative reform process, the Montreux Document Secretariat developed various tools, including the Legislative Guidance Tool for States to Regulate Private Military and Security Companies. This offers concrete and appropriate steps for States to implement international norms and good practices contained in the Montreux Document into domestic laws.

The full text of the General Assembly resolution can be found in Spanish, English, French and Portuguese. 

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