WASHINGTON, DC – AMIDST growing geopolitical challenges in the Western Hemisphere, Foreign Affairs Minister Dr. Denzil Douglas believes the Organization of American States (OAS) can be a driving force for transformation.
This follows the election of Surinamese diplomat Albert Ramdin as the Secretary-General elect of the OAS—the first national from the Caribbean Community to hold the position. In congratulating him, Dr. Douglas emphasized that the organization must evolve to maintain its relevance and capacity for transformative progress.
Speaking at the 56th General Assembly, Dr. Douglas urged the incoming Secretary-General to leverage the OAS’s political influence to address emerging challenges while promoting inclusive and meaningful engagement.
Ramdin assumes leadership at a critical time, as the Western Hemisphere grapples with trade wars, border crises, violence, and arms smuggling.
"Mr. Chair, the challenges before us are complex and multifaceted, from climate change and security threats to social inequality and economic instability. Addressing these issues demands collective solutions and greater cooperation among member states," Dr. Douglas told the Assembly on March 10.
With this in mind, he stressed that Ramdin’s leadership must be guided by a “results-oriented agenda—one that delivers tangible solutions and fosters lasting change.”
"St. Kitts and Nevis stands committed to working towards advancing a more integrated and prosperous hemisphere. As we strive to become a sustainable island state, our priorities must remain clear, advocating for climate justice, empowering our young people, strengthening educational opportunities and enhancing regional security while championing democratic governance and upholding human rights," said Dr Douglas.
Some of the key challenges Ramdin will face is the ongoing border dispute between Guyana and Venezuela, as well as escalating violence in Haiti. Dr. Douglas expressed hope that under Ramdin's leadership, the OAS will play a more active role in stabilizing Haiti, which has been overrun by gangs.
“It is incumbent on all of us in this hemisphere to work together to ensure that our sister nation emerges stronger and much more secure while on the path towards sustainable advancement. St Kitts and Nevis acknowledges the financial constraints that hinder the organisation's ability to fully execute its own mandate,” he added.
Addressing the broader regional challenges, Dr. Douglas noted that climate change remains a pressing concern, particularly for small island developing states (SIDS).
"It is undeniable that small island developing states continue to shoulder a disproportionate burden of climate change and the urgency for action has never been starker. We call upon the OAS to play a more prominent leadership role in advocating tangible support for adaptation and resilience building, efforts we are recognising that this crisis demands joint and concerted action to mitigate the devastating effects and safeguard the future of generations to come. Empowering youth must also be central to our regional agenda."
Ramdin is set to assume office later this month, and in his address, he called for greater unity and collaboration among all member states. However, he may face difficulties navigating shifting geopolitical dynamics, particularly in relation to climate change policies.
The Donald Trump administration has already signaled its intention to withdraw from the Paris Climate Accord, a move that could pose challenges for small island states advocating for stronger climate action.
