The SPA, through the Department for Electoral Cooperation and Observation (DECO), develops and maintains a permanent, professional electoral observation service for member States, based on the continual improvement and strengthening of procedures and practices in this field. The DECO also organizes, coordinates, and executes electoral observation missions, exploratory missions, electoral technology missions, and related missions, at the request of member States.

In addition, the DECO develops and provides specialized technical advice and support on electoral matters and prepares reports for consideration by the Secretary General, the donor countries, and the political organs of the OAS.