In historic first, a Caribbean diplomat, Suriname's Albert Ramdin, will lead the OAS

Yahoo

11-03-2025

Surinamese Foreign Minister Albert Ramdin has been named the new secretary-general of the Organization of American States, becoming the first diplomat from the Caribbean Community to lead the hemispheric organization and taking over the role of from Uruguayan diplomat Luis Almagro.
A former assistant secretary general to the organization between 2005-15, during which he made countless trips to Haiti, Ramdin, 66, has served as Suriname's minister of foreign affairs, international business and international cooperation since 2020 and will remain in the post until May 25.
Ramdin's election to the five-year post came by acclamation at the beginning of the 56th Special Session of the General Assembly of the OAS on Monday in the presence of 25 delegates. Ahead of the race, he had received the unanimous endorsements of the 14 member Caribbean Community, and late last week he secured the support of Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, Colombian and Uruguay.
Ramdin was running against Paraguay Foreign Minister Rubén Ramírez Lezcano, who reportedly pulled out of the race last week after being unable to secure the support of the Trump administration. The new U.S. administration has expressed uncertainty about the OAS and its role in helping resolve conflicts in the hemisphere.
The ongoing debate about the usefulness of the Washington-based OAS, along with its unclear relations with the Trump administration. compounded by the crises in Haiti, Venezuela and Nicaragua, are among some of the immediate challenges Ramdin faces.
A former Dutch colony, Suriname is located at the northern top of South America. However, it enjoys close diplomatic relations with the Caribbean and is part of the Caribbean Community regional bloc known as CARICOM. Made up mostly of former British colonies, CARICOM's full membership also includes Haiti and the only non-independent nation, the British Overseas Territory of Montserrat.
A representative of Suriname said in a statement that Ramdin's ascension not only represents a milestone in the history of the OAS, it 'reflects a reaffirmation' of the shared commitments to democracy, human rights, security and development across the Americas. It also adds a new and important element to the diverse political landscape in the Western Hemisphere.
'Today comes into reality the first time the Caribbean Community member states after more than 45 years of membership occupy the highest position in this hemispheric body,' said Stanley Raghoebarsing, Suriname's minister of finance and planning.
Ramdin's unanimous support from the Caribbean Community's and of other countries in Central and South America, along with the endorsement of his president, Chandrikapersad 'Chan' Santokhi, underscore 'the confidence placed in his leadership,' Raghoebarsing read from prepared remarks
'The unity and strong commitment that accompanied this endorsement have laid an important foundation for the election by acclamation today,' he said. 'CARICOM brings rich experience and achievements to this hemisphere in terms of democracy, democratic governance, the rule of law, human rights and in many other areas that go straight to the original goals and purpose of this hemispheric body. We are convinced that the new secretary general will benefit from these important developments and strengthen the inter-American relations to the benefit of all.'
In his campaign for the OAS post, Ramdin advocated cross-border collaboration and talked about the OAS doing more to address post-COVID-19 uncertainties and issues like crime, migration and economic development. He wanted to see the agency be 'very motivated and inspired,' he told the Miami Herald.
In a congratulatory statement, the Caribbean Community's foreign ministers said Ramdin's historic election 'reflects the confidence of member states in his abilities.
'With a career distinguished by extensive experience in foreign policy and diplomacy, including a previous tenure as OAS Assistant Secretary-General, he is well-equipped to guide the organization in addressing critical issues such as peace, security, socioeconomic development, democracy and good governance across the hemisphere,' the statement said. 'The Caribbean Community is confident that Minister Ramdin will serve in his new role with distinction, upholding the OAS Charter and demonstrating the necessary expertise to navigate regional challenges, thereby contributing to the shared vision for a peaceful and prosperous hemisphere.'