Over 650 delegates from across the Americas have convened in Antigua and Barbuda for the 55th General Assembly of the Organisation of American States (OAS), marking the Caribbean’s first opportunity to host this significant event since 2002.
Notable representatives from Dominica are among those participating in the discussions.
Spanning three days, the assembly is set to address critical issues, with a particular focus on mental health in the aftermath of the pandemic. Antigua and Barbuda’s Foreign Minister, EP Chet Greene, underscored the need for tangible outcomes from the assembly, prioritizing results over mere dialogue.
OAS Assistant Secretary General Nestor Mendez highlighted the assembly’s diversity, showcasing representation from high-level officials of member states as well as civil society organizations.
This year’s assembly is significant as it is being led by Albert Ramdin from Suriname, the first Caribbean Secretary General of the OAS. Ramdin emphasized the resilience of Caribbean countries and their capacity to provide valuable insights into larger hemispheric challenges.
Key topics on the agenda include addressing security issues in Haiti, promoting development initiatives, and acknowledging Pope Francis’s contributions to the region.
Additionally, elections for various positions within the OAS are set to take place, marking a pivotal moment in the organization’s leadership structure.
Earlier this year there was the SIDS conference in Antigua. There was widespread commendation and great hype. What has changed? NOTHING!
Now the OAS meeting again in Antigua. Again with the customary over hype. Sorry if I sound like the ultimate pessimist but this is an ostentatious display of privilege ,glitz. and glam.
An inordinate amount of scarce financial resources are expended on these events. The benefits for the citizenry should be copious.
Silence me by providing the irrefutable evidence of progress after these extravagant conferences.