Albert Ramdin has been appointed as the OAS’s first Caribbean secretary-general, succeeding Luis Almagro. His election received unanimous endorsements from CARICOM and several South American nations. Ramdin faces challenges including relevant criticisms amid crises in the region. His leadership is seen as vital to promoting democracy and cooperation in the Americas, alongside addressing post-COVID-19 issues.
Albert Ramdin of Suriname has made history by being appointed the new secretary-general of the Organization of American States (OAS), marking the first time a diplomat from the Caribbean Community has led the organization. He assumes this role from Uruguayan diplomat Luis Almagro. Ramdin previously served as the OAS’s assistant secretary-general from 2005 to 2015 and has been Suriname’s Minister of Foreign Affairs since 2020, a position he will maintain until May 25, 2023.
Ramdin’s election resulted from unanimous support from the Caribbean Community, along with endorsements from Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, and Uruguay. He was appointed by acclamation during the 56th Special Session of the OAS’s General Assembly, where 25 delegates were present. His only opponent, Paraguay’s Foreign Minister Rubén Ramírez Lezcano, withdrew from the race after failing to secure U.S. support under the Trump administration, which has expressed skepticism toward the OAS.
The challenges ahead for Ramdin include navigating criticism of the OAS’s relevance, which is complicated by ongoing crises in Haiti, Venezuela, and Nicaragua. Suriname, a former Dutch colony situated in northern South America, has strong diplomatic ties to the Caribbean and is part of the CARICOM regional bloc, which comprises mostly former British colonies and includes Haiti and Montserrat.
In a statement, a representative from Suriname emphasized that Ramdin’s leadership serves as a crucial milestone for the OAS, reaffirming commitments to democracy, human rights, security, and development across the Americas. Stanley Raghoebarsing, Suriname’s Minister of Finance and Planning, acknowledged that this is the first time in over 45 years that a Caribbean Community member has occupied the OAS’s highest position.
Ramdin’s unanimous support, which included backing from his President Chandrikapersad “Chan” Santokhi, reflects widespread confidence in his leadership capabilities. Raghoebarsing articulated that the strong unity seen during Ramdin’s election lays a solid foundation for future collaborative efforts, emphasizing CARICOM’s extensive experience in promoting democracy and human rights, which aligns with the OAS’s foundational objectives.
Advocating for cross-border cooperation, Ramdin has expressed a desire for the OAS to address post-COVID-19 recovery, crime, migration, and economic development. He aspirations for an invigorated agency committed to tackling these pressing issues. In a statement, the Caribbean Community’s foreign ministers commended Ramdin’s election, describing his background in diplomacy as instrumental to the OAS’s mission in promoting peace and development throughout the hemisphere.
The election of Albert Ramdin as the new secretary-general of the OAS is a momentous occasion for both Suriname and the Caribbean Community, reflecting a historic shift in leadership. His unanimous support signifies confidence in his diplomatic capabilities amid significant challenges facing the organization and the region. As he steps into this pivotal role, Ramdin’s commitment to fostering collaboration to address contemporary issues will be essential in shaping a prosperous landscape for the Americas.
Original Source: www.miamiherald.com
