Organization of American States elects Ramdin, marking break from Trump era

[Judi Lynn]

Caribbean leader's victory seen as rebuke to US policies in Latin America
Laura Gamba |
12.04.2025 - Update : 12.04.2025

BOGOTA, Colombia

Albert Ramdin of Suriname was elected the secretary-general of the Organization of American States (OAS) on March 10, marking a significant departure from the organization's recent direction and signaling a potential reshaping of inter-American relations. But Ramdin was not initially considered the most likely candidate to win.

Pro-Trump candidate fails to win support
Paraguay's candidate, current Foreign Minister Ruben Ramirez Lezcano, had entered the OAS secretary-general race as the perceived frontrunner, seemingly positioned to secure the leadership.

The US' Donald Trump administration actively campaigned for Ramirez Lezcano, utilizing diplomatic pressure to garner support. However, Trump's endorsement ultimately became a detriment to Lezcano's campaign.

A coalition comprising Caribbean nations and progressive South American governments, including Colombia, Chile, Uruguay, and Brazil, who were wary of Trump's policies, united in support of Ramdin. Ultimately, Lezcano stepped down and 28 of the 32 voting countries expressed their support for Ramdin.

Experts suggest that the election served as a referendum on the US administration's approach to Latin America.

Camilo Manuel Gonzalez, an International Relations professor at Javeriana University in Colombia, posits that Trump’s imposition of tariffs, his threats to assert control over the Panama Canal, and a general disregard for regional concerns collectively galvanized Latin America in its defiance.

More:
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/americas/organization-of-american-states-elects-ramdin-marking-break-from-trump-era/3536032