Sonny Ramphal

The Centre has been established to honour the contribution and dedication to the Commonwealth of Shridath (Sonny) Ramphal, second Commonwealth Secretary-General (1975-1990). The Ramphal Centre will carry forward his ideals of a Commonwealth in the service of international development, conflict resolution and good governance. His description of the centre as "an enduring jewel of the Commonwealth" will ensue by promoting the dissemination of innovative and progressive policies into worldwide practice, with the support of prominent Comonwealth personalties.

Sir Shridath was secretary general of the commonwealth from 1975 to 1990, a crucial period in the history of the Commonwealth. The commonwealth membership grew from 34 countries to 40 during his tenure. He nudged the Commonwealth to address the pressing issues of the day; peace and security, political, economic and social justice and human rights. The commonwealth undertook work on global issues, such as the reduction of trade protectionism, addressing the vulnerability of small states and climate change. He helped the Commonwealth to evolve from the association of countries sharing a common British heritage into one with a global outlook and a forward looking agenda.