Senator Delano Franklyn, Jamaica’s Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, outlined several recommendations to delegates at the 35th General Assembly of the Organization of American States (OAS) that were necessary for governments to work towards strengthening democracy in their respective countries, while ensuring that greater democracy exists at the regional and global level.
Franklyn recommended that the OAS member countries’ recommit to the principle of multilateralism, simultaneously using the established institutions to promote peace and harmony and try to resolve differences.
Minister Franklyn urged Foreign Ministers of member nations that the Charters of Regional Institutions be adhered to and applied to all states equally, as some of the Regions have not been consistent in applying their Charter, particularly as it relates to transition in the leadership of governments.
Minster Franklyn stated, “Efforts must be made to eradicate poverty, at the same time to identify and isolate terrorism and corruption; globalization and liberalization must assume a human face as states have a moral and political duty to insure that the effects of globalization enhances, rather than curtail, democratic growth”.
Regarding the International Trade agenda which Franklyn felt is heavily weighted against the developing states, he suggested the need for special and differential treatment of the less developed countries.
On the issue of transnational crime, acts of corruption and terrorism as they threatened democracy everywhere. “Organized crime is now perceived to be a significant problem for investment, migration of skilled persons, public security and event the sovereignty of some countries.” Franklyn suggested that they find the best method of “inclusiveness”, where people who are involved in decision making principles, move towards finding the best way to help improve quality of life for all people.
