Albert Ramdin, Foreign Minister of Suriname, has been elected as the new OAS Secretary General, making history as the first Caribbean leader to hold the position. His election symbolizes a call for unity among member states, receiving broad support amidst a shift in the organization’s direction following a divisive leadership under Luis Almagro. Ramdin’s term will focus on pressing regional issues including democracy, migration, and political crises.
Albert Ramdin, the Foreign Minister of Suriname, has been elected as the new Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS). This appointment makes him the first Caribbean leader to lead the organization, succeeding Luis Almagro of Uruguay in May, with substantial endorsement from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
In his inaugural address, Ramdin emphasized the importance of unity among member states, stating, “My commitment is to serve all member states of this organization. Our collective strength lies in our ability to work together.” His election was facilitated by a consensus, as he was unopposed after Paraguay’s Foreign Minister withdrew due to insufficient support.
Ramdin achieved this position during a session in Washington, chaired by Chile’s Foreign Minister Alberto van Klaveren, gaining support from progressive governments in Brazil, Bolivia, and others. This consensus is in stark contrast to the previous years marked by deep divisions under Almagro, who faced criticism for his close alignment with the US.
Despite a lack of support from some countries, including Paraguay which condemned the withdrawal of promised backing from Brazil and Uruguay, Ramdin was elected with the necessary votes. The US administration, critical of many regional governments, did not oppose Ramdin’s election but urged him to focus on democratic values and condemned abuses in Venezuela, Cuba, and Nicaragua.
Ramdin is set to take office in May for the term period of 2025-2030, facing significant regional challenges such as the crisis in Venezuela, violence in Haiti, and increasing migration issues. His experience as the OAS’s second-in-command from 2005 to 2015 positions him to tackle these pressing matters effectively, as he transitions from Almagro’s emphasis on democracy and human rights.
In summary, Albert Ramdin’s election as the first Caribbean Secretary General of the OAS represents a shift towards unity and collaborative governance within the organization. His commitment to serve all member states will be crucial as he navigates complex regional challenges. The support from a diverse group of countries marks a new beginning for the OAS after years of division under the previous leadership.
Original Source: efe.com
