OAS Chief Albert Ramdin Makes Haiti His Top Priority

• OAS Secretary General Albert Ramdin prioritizes Haiti’s recovery efforts.
• Haiti faces deepening crises in governance, security, and political stability.
• Reviving ‘Group of Friends of Haiti’ focuses on regional cooperation.
• Long-term strategies include a five-pillar ‘Haitian Road Map’ initiative.
• Addressing security is fundamental for restoring access to vulnerable communities.

OAS Focuses on Haiti’s Political and Security Issues

In his inaugural term from 2025 to 2030, OAS Secretary General Albert Ramdin has declared Haiti a top priority for the Organization of American States. In a recent interview with The Sunday Gleaner, Ramdin stated that addressing Haiti’s persistent political, security, and governance crises is crucial to the OAS’s core principles, which include democracy, human rights, security, and development. “Regrettably, all these issues are challenged at the moment due to the absence of a legitimate government in Haiti,” he emphasized.

Regional Solutions Needed for Haiti’s Migration Crisis

The migration crisis affecting Haiti is a primary concern, particularly as it leads to increased forced migration to neighboring Caribbean nations like Jamaica and The Bahamas. To tackle this, Ramdin noted that he is keen on reviving the ‘Group of Friends of Haiti’ initiative within the OAS, working in unison with CARICOM and other international partners. “I had productive discussions with CARICOM leaders, including Prime Minister Andrew Holness of Jamaica, to reaffirm our commitment to these efforts,” Ramdin said after participating in the CARICOM Heads of Government Meeting held recently in Montego Bay, Jamaica.

Security and Humanitarian Assistance are Crucial for Haiti’s Recovery

Long-term strategies are being formulated, with the OAS planning to align its initiatives with CARICOM’s framework through a comprehensive ‘Haitian Road Map’ developed in consultation with Haitian officials. A significant initial focus is on security, specifically to restore access for vulnerable communities. “Addressing security is vital. We need access roads so assistance can reach those in need, and we must ensure our ports are secure. Security measures must be well organized, along with humanitarian aid,” Ramdin remarked. He also indicated that the comprehensive plan will be disseminated to stakeholders including the United Nations and CARICOM soon.

In summary, OAS Secretary General Albert Ramdin is prioritizing Haiti in response to its persistent crises regarding governance and security. Reviving partnerships with CARICOM and implementing a long-term strategy through the ‘Haitian Road Map’ are among his key initiatives. As Ramdin works to restore stability, a collective regional effort is deemed imperative for addressing issues such as migration and educational needs in Haiti.