Democracy Dialogues: Ramdin's Bold Plan for the OAS

The incoming secretary general of the Organization of American States seeks to tackle regional crises through cooperation and private-sector engagement. Speakers: Albert Ramdin, Secretary General, Organizations of American States Eric Farnsworth, Vice President, Americas Society/Council of the Americas On May 5, Albert Ramdin will take over the mantle of leadership at the Organization of American States (OAS). In a timely conversation with Eric Farnsworth of AS/COA, the secretary general-elect lays out a his vision for the OAS in a hemisphere facing escalating challenges, including Hati's deepening humanitarian crisis and Venezuela's contested political future. “If the OAS didn’t exist, we would have to create it today,” says Ramdin, underscoring the organization’s vital role in safeguarding democracy, security, human rights, and development across the region. Drawing on decades of diplomatic leadership, he calls for a reinvigorated OAS—one that delivers real results for its member states. Central to his vision is a more dynamic relationship with the private sector and regional financial institutions. “Prosperity doesn’t come from government alone. It comes from the private sector, which creates jobs and mobilizes capital,” he emphasizes. Ramdin advocates for closer cooperation with subregional bodies, development banks, and business leaders to tackle pressing issues such as migration, fragile governance, and economic instability. The conversation also explores how the OAS can help build a more resilient and interconnected Americas by advancing democratic governance, expanding intra-regional trade, and strengthening multilateral coordination.