Albert Ramdin: First Caribbean Secretary-General of the OAS

Albert Ramdin of Suriname has been elected as the first Caribbean Secretary-General of the OAS. His election, supported by CARICOM and various South American states, is seen as a landmark achievement. Ramdin faces significant challenges related to regional crises and the effectiveness of the OAS.

Albert Ramdin of Suriname has been appointed as the new Secretary-General of the Organization of American States (OAS), marking a historic milestone as he becomes the first Caribbean diplomat to assume this role. Ramdin, who previously served as Assistant Secretary-General from 2005 to 2015 and has been Suriname’s Foreign Minister since 2020, was elected unanimously during the 56th Special Session of the OAS General Assembly.

His election came after receiving unanimous support from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and backing from various South American nations, including Brazil and Chile. Ramdin’s election followed the withdrawal of Paraguay’s Foreign Minister Rubén Ramírez Lezcano from the contest, which was influenced by political changes in the U.S. administration and its stance on the OAS.

Ramdin’s leadership will face immediate challenges such as navigating the OAS’s role amidst crises in Haiti, Venezuela, and Nicaragua while addressing the ongoing debates regarding the agency’s efficacy and relations with the U.S. The representative from Suriname noted that Ramdin’s leadership is a confirmation of collective commitments to democracy and development across the Americas.

Stanley Raghoebarsing, Suriname’s Minister of Finance and Planning, emphasized the significance of Ramdin’s position, noting that this marks the first time a Caribbean Community member has occupied the top OAS post. Raghoebarsing expressed confidence that Ramdin will enhance inter-American relations.

During his campaign, Ramdin championed cross-border collaboration and prioritized focusing the OAS on critical issues such as post-COVID-19 recovery, crime, migration, and socio-economic development. The Caribbean foreign ministers have stated that his extensive diplomatic experience equips him to address essential issues of peace, security, and governance in the hemisphere.

Albert Ramdin’s election as Secretary-General of the OAS represents a significant advancement for Caribbean representation in hemispheric diplomacy. His extensive background in foreign affairs, coupled with broad support from CARICOM and Latin American countries, enhances his capability to address the pressing challenges facing the region. Under his leadership, there are high expectations for renewed focus on vital issues, ensuring the OAS plays a constructive role in fostering democracy and socio-economic development across the Americas.

Original Source: www.miamiherald.com