Albert Ramdin, Suriname’s Foreign Minister, made history on March 10, 2025, when the Organization of American States elected him as its first Caribbean Secretary-General.
The 67-year-old diplomat secured the position by acclamation after Paraguay withdrew its candidate last week. Ramdin will lead the OAS from 2025 to 2030, taking over from Uruguay’s Luis Almagro on May 25.
His election marks a significant milestone for Caribbean representation in hemispheric governance. The 14-member Caribbean Community (CARICOM) backed his candidacy, along with Brazil, Uruguay, Colombia, and other nations.
“This signifies not only a historic moment but also a welcome opportunity to foster closer collaboration,” Ramdin stated in his acceptance speech. He emphasized unity and regional dialogue as central pillars of his upcoming term.
Ramdin brings substantial experience to the role. He previously served as OAS Assistant Secretary-General for two terms from 2005 to 2015. He also holds the position of Suriname‘s top diplomat since 2020.
Suriname’s Ramdin Makes History as First Caribbean OAS Secretary-General. (Photo Internet reproduction)
His election comes at a critical time for the Caribbean region. Climate change threatens Caribbean economies disproportionately, with annual damages estimated at 2.13% of GDP. Extreme weather events in the Caribbean increased by 85% from 2001-2020 compared to the previous two decades.
CARICOM’s New Secretary-General and Regional Challenges
Caribbean nations require over $100 billion for climate adaptation, approximately one-third of their annual economic output. Ramdin highlighted climate action as a priority. He stressed that climate challenges must appear in both development planning and political discourse.
The new Secretary-General faces other pressing issues. High public debt burdens Caribbean economies, with regional averages reaching 70.6% of GDP. The area also struggles with armed crime, territorial disputes, and economic vulnerability.
Suriname opposes Washington’s sanctions against Venezuela and supports Guyana in its ongoing Essequibo border dispute. Ramdin’s leadership may signal a shift toward more balanced hemispheric relations.
CARICOM’s Council for Foreign and Community Relations expressed confidence in his abilities. Trinidad and Tobago’s Foreign Minister Dr. Amery Browne called the election “an historic moment for all of CARICOM.”
Ramdin will remain Suriname’s Foreign Minister until May 25, when his country holds national elections and Almagro’s term concludes. He pledged to serve all member states and promote regional prosperity through collective action.