Ambassador of Dominica to the Organization of American States

The Ambassador of Dominica to the Organization of American States (OAS) serves as the Permanent Representative appointed by the Dominican government to represent its interests at this hemispheric institution based in Washington, D.C. Accredited also as Ambassador to the United States, this role encompasses strategic diplomacy, fostering democratic values, and advocating for development, environmental resilience, security, and human rights on behalf of Dominica and its Caribbean neighbours.

Mandate and Diplomatic Significance

Appointed under the authority of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ambassador presents credentials to the OAS Secretary General and the U.S. President, marking the official commencement of their role. In this capacity, Dominica’s envoy participates in the OAS Permanent Council, contributing to policymaking across four pillars: democracy, human rights, security, and development. By representing Dominica at General Assembly sessions and special meetings, the Ambassador ensures the nation’s voice is heard on issues like climate adaptation, trade, and regional integration.

Notable Individuals Who Have Held the Position

• Edward Alexander (appointed January 21, 1998)
  Presented credentials and championed issues affecting Dominica’s banana industry and indigenous rights, notably urging attention to Carib communities within the hemispheric framework. He pledged Dominica’s commitment to fighting poverty, promoting education, and combating corruption and drug trafficking.
• Hubert J. Charles (June 2010 – mid-2010s)
  A diplomat and educator born in Portsmouth in 1948, he transitioned from roles in education and UNESCO to represent Dominica at the OAS. In 2011, he presented his book “Advocacy and Change” at the OAS library while serving as Permanent Representative.
• Vince Henderson (appointed October 2016)
  Prior to this posting, Dr. Henderson served as Ambassador to the U.S. and Permanent Representative to the OAS. He emphasised climate change, small island concerns, energy, and education in his inaugural speech.
• Steve Ferrol (appointed October 6, 2023)
  Currently serving as Dominica’s Ambassador to the U.S. and Permanent Representative to the OAS. He previously held senior roles, including Cabinet Secretary. His presentation of credentials highlighted Dominica’s commitment to democracy, climate action, tourism growth, and trade development

Roles and Responsibilities

The Ambassador helps frame and negotiate regional policies, ensuring Dominica’s needs are addressed in critical areas such as climate recovery, economic resilience, and democratic reforms. They:

• Coordinate with Washington-based bodies, U.S. agencies, and other diplomatic missions to secure technical assistance, financing, and investment
• Represent Dominica at OAS meetings and advance national interests in international forums on hemispheric cooperation
• Provide regular reports to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and brief senior government officials, including the Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, on policy developments

Two Main Aspects of the Ambassador’s Mission

• Representation and Advocacy: Articulate Dominica’s position on trade, disaster relief, governance, public health emergencies, and more during OAS sessions and committee meetings
• Diplomatic Networking: Build relationships with other member states’ envoys, OAS departments, and donor agencies to advance projects central to Dominica’s development goals

These activities ensure Dominica maintains its influence within the OAS and benefits from collective action through regional mechanisms.

Impact, Challenges, and Institutional Support

Dominica’s Ambassador to the OAS plays a pivotal role in elevating the island state’s concerns, especially those related to climate vulnerability, sustainable development, and human security. The OAS Ambassador coordinates with civil society, national agencies, and diaspora groups to amplify Dominica’s message. Challenges include limited diplomatic staff, competition for OAS funding, and balancing dual responsibilities in Washington. Support structures, including the OAS office in Roseau and coordination with the Permanent Mission in New York, help to ensure seamless diplomatic engagement.

Upcoming trials include maintaining momentum around the Caribbean’s climate agenda, navigating changes under new OAS leadership (e.g., Secretary General Albert Ramdin, effective March 2025), and optimising Dominica’s access to technical resources and funding.