Topic: 2024-The Situation in Guyana
Country: Kenya
Delegate Name: Perla Perez-Montiel
Conference: GLIMUN
Committee: SPECPOL
Country: Kenya
School: Fishers High School
Author: Perla Perez-Montiel
Topic 1: The Situation in Guyana
The dispute over the Essequibo region between Venezuela and Guyana dates back to the colonial era. In 1814, the Netherlands ceded its claims in the area to Great Britain, leading to the creation of British Guiana. The border between British Guiana and Venezuela was undefined, sparking tensions after a British expedition in 1835 mapped the region and claimed 30,000 square miles for British Guiana. This disputed area, making up about 60% of Guyana’s total land, became a focal point after the 1899 arbitration where American and European powers ruled in favor of British Guiana. Although Venezuela reluctantly accepted the decision, the dispute persisted, especially after Guyana’s independence in 1966. In 2015, tensions reignited with the discovery of significant oil reserves in Essequibo, estimated at over 8 billion barrels. In 2023, Venezuela held a controversial referendum, declaring Essequibo as part of its territory, a move condemned by the international community, including the United Nations. While no direct conflict has occurred, both countries have significantly increased their military presence along the border. Venezuela conducts regular drills while Guyana strengthens its defenses, raising concerns about a potential escalation in an already unstable region, where over 7 million Venezuelans have fled due to economic instability.
Kenya, as a member of the United Nations and a strong advocate for peaceful conflict resolution, believes in upholding international law and fostering diplomatic dialogue. Kenya understands the historical complexities of the Essequibo dispute and the significant economic stakes, particularly in oil. Venezuela depends on oil for 95% of its export revenue and faces a severe economic crisis with hyperinflation exceeding 1,000,000% and declining oil production. In contrast, Guyana is seeing economic growth with its oil industry projected to contribute over $8 billion to its GDP by 2025. However, Kenya stresses that these economic interests must not lead to war, as a militarized conflict would devastate both countries and the wider region. Kenya supports the 1966 Geneva Agreement, which calls for continued negotiations, and believes the dispute should be resolved through peaceful dialogue under the guidance of the United Nations and international law. A peaceful resolution is essential for regional stability and the long-term interests of both nations.
Kenya advocates for a comprehensive approach to resolve the dispute. First, Venezuela and Guyana should return to negotiations under the 1966 Geneva Agreement, with the United Nations and Organization of American States (OAS) playing an active role in facilitating the talks. Second, both parties should agree to halt military maneuvers along the border to reduce tensions and create a better environment for dialogue. Third, Kenya supports establishing a joint development zone in the Essequibo region where both nations can share the economic benefits from oil resources. This would create mutual incentives for peace and cooperation. Finally, Kenya believes long-term stability requires addressing broader economic and social challenges, including poverty and humanitarian support, particularly for the millions of Venezuelan refugees. By prioritizing peace, diplomacy and regional cooperation, Kenya is confident a fair and lasting solution can be reached for both nations and the wider Caribbean region.
Sources:
https://press.un.org/en/2018/sgsm18879.doc.htm
https://treaties.un.org/doc/Publication/UNTS/Volume%20561/volume-561-I-8192-English.pdf
https://hias.org/where/guyana/
https://www.unfpa.org/data/emergencies/guyana-humanitarian-emergency
