On March 10, the OAS will elect a new Secretary General amid significant internal divisions. Albert Ramdin and Rubén Ramírez Lezcano are the leading candidates, reflecting differing priorities regarding democracy and development. The election is crucial for the future of the OAS, with challenges in funding and regional cooperation impacting its effectiveness.
On March 10, the Organization of American States (OAS) will elect a new Secretary General (SG) through a secret ballot, with the winner commencing a five-year term in May. The election features two main candidates, each reflecting significant divisions within the OAS and the broader region. This critical juncture may determine the future of the OAS, highlighting the institution’s fragility amid competing priorities and perspectives.
The OAS, established in 1948, is pivotal to the inter-American system, primarily aimed at assuring peaceful conflict resolution and upholding democracy and development among member states. Its focus has shifted over time from promoting cooperation among member states to emphasizing democracy and human rights within those nations, signaling an evolution in its mission over the decades.
Historically, the OAS played a significant role in development by administering aid through initiatives like the Alliance for Progress during the 1960s and 70s. However, declining budgets have reduced its influence in development, leading to internal fractures and various factions positioning themselves for upcoming leadership.
The leading candidates are Albert Ramdin of Suriname and Rubén Ramírez Lezcano from Paraguay. Ramírez is anticipated to prioritize democracy and security issues, addressing migration, terrorism, and drug trafficking. Conversely, Ramdin may focus on non-controversial development strategies, such as technical assistance, while avoiding direct criticism of democratic threats in nations like Venezuela.
Ramdin is seen as favored by a coalition of 14 Caribbean member states, asserting the unwritten principle of geographical rotation in leadership. This bloc emphasizes “integral development” as a priority and has maintained a relatively neutral stance on human rights violations. Conversely, Ramírez reportedly enjoys the backing of Argentina and may align with U.S. interests, although formal endorsements remain absent.
Critical voices from Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Chile, and Uruguay appear to support Ramdin, enhancing his competitive edge. Countries such as Colombia and Mexico have adopted a skeptical view of the OAS under the leadership of current SG Luis Almagro. They oppose what they perceive as U.S. interventionist tendencies within the OAS framework and exemplify the growing discontent toward its U.S.-aligned policies.
In terms of budget implications, the U.S. provides 60% of OAS funding. Should a candidate less favored by the U.S. prevail, the Trump administration might respond by ceasing its contributions, severely impacting the OAS’s operations. To avoid appearing as a U.S. puppet, alternative candidacies, such as Costa Rica’s Arnoldo André, may gain traction, especially among undecided nations.
The leadership of the next SG is critical for the OAS as its effectiveness is rooted in collaboration with member states. The new SG should pursue strategic partnerships to enhance electoral observation and human rights programs, reshaping the organization’s impact amidst its financial constraints. Engaging with national education systems to cultivate democratic values could fortify its mission.
The OAS represents the sole hemispheric institution uniting all member nations, facilitating negotiation and collaboration. Despite its limitations, it has played significant roles in averting democratic collapse across various countries. The road ahead is fraught with challenges as the next SG must navigate a nexus of competing demands for democracy, unity, and ongoing relevance. Balancing strong pro-democracy positions with the need for unity and resource acquisition will pose a formidable challenge in the coming years.
The upcoming March election for the OAS Secretary General is pivotal, with significant implications for the institution’s future amid internal and external divisions. The next leader must adeptly balance promoting democracy while fostering collaboration within the OAS to maintain its relevance. Financial constraints might compel a strategic pivot, emphasizing electoral observation and human rights. Ultimately, this election will shape the OAS’s role in addressing contemporary challenges and preserving the ideals of democracy throughout the Americas.
Original Source: americasquarterly.org
