We are thrilled to share that CADCA has been officially approved as a registered civil society organization within the Organization of American States (OAS). This recognition, granted by the Permanent Council of the OAS in December, will allow CADCA to participate in international drug policy discussions and collaborate with like-minded member states on substance use prevention initiatives.

The OAS, the oldest regional organization in the world, unites leaders from across the Americas to collaborate on hemispheric challenges and opportunities. Today, the Organization connects all 35 independent nations of the Americas, serving as the primary political, legal, and social forum for governments in the Hemisphere. It has also granted permanent observer status to 70 states and the European Union.

As a registered civil society organization, CADCA now has the opportunity to freely participate in the Inter-American Drug Abuse Control Commission, the consultative and advisory body of the OAS on drug issues. This aligns with our work at the global level, where we provide coalitions with evidence-based prevention strategies to combat substance use in communities worldwide. Our engagement with the OAS will also allow us to contribute to regional efforts in substance use prevention, treatment, and recovery.

Stay tuned for updates as we begin this exciting new chapter with the OAS.