Belize’s Lynn Young Assumes Chair of OAS Permanent Council

On Friday, Lynn Raymond Young, the Permanent Representative of Belize to the Organization of American States (OAS), officially took over as the chair of the Permanent Council. 

Young, son of former Governor General of Belize, Sir Coleville Young, will hold the position until December 31, 2024. 

The handover ceremony took place at the OAS headquarters in Washington, D.C. 

Young said in his inaugural speech, “As Chair, I will prioritise efforts in eradicating poverty and fostering inclusive economic growth. We must focus on strategies that empower the most vulnerable, enhance access to education and health care, promote decent work, and foster resilient economies.”

Young reiterated Belize’s dedication to the core principles of the OAS, which include democracy, human rights, security, and integral development. “These principles are not only the foundations of our organisation but also the pillars upon which our collective future rests. As President, I will work tirelessly to ensure that our deliberations and actions are guided by these values,” he added.

The outgoing President, Victor Fernandes, Permanent Representative of Barbados, expressed confidence in his successor. “I am pleased to hand over the gavel to my colleague from Belize this morning. I am confident that he will do an admirable job during his term,” Fernandes remarked.