The Forces of Growth and Change

Abstract

As the preceding chapters have indicated, in the nineteen fifties, the OAS was a new organization even though it was based on old principles. The Charter represented an important instrument with which the Organization had equipped itself to shape its course for the future. It was also stated that the introduction of the Charter saved the day for the Pan American movement enabling it to survive the difficulties and challenges of the nineteen fifties, especially at a time when the United Nations agencies seemed to duplicate the objectives of Pan-Americanism. Initially, therefore, guided by its Charter provisions, enthused by its principles and sustained by its core structures, the Organization was able to remain faithful to its basic objectives. The Charter also provided the impetus for growth and afforded the unique tool for the Organization to focus and direct its activities.