Topic: 2024-The Situation in Guyana
Country: Germany
Delegate Name: Ava Cousineau
Delegate: Ava Cousineau
School: Williamston High School
Country: Germany
Committee: SPECPOL
Topic: Situation in Guyana
The recent border dispute involving Guyana centers on a longstanding territorial disagreement with Venezuela over the Essequibo region, an area rich in natural resources, including oil reserves. The conflict dates back to the 19th century, when the British colonial government and Venezuela’s predecessor state had conflicting claims over the region. The dispute escalated after Guyana gained independence in 1966, with Venezuela continuing to assert its claim to the Essequibo territory. In 2018, tensions increased following the discovery of significant offshore oil fields in the disputed area, which both countries see as crucial to their economic future. Despite various diplomatic efforts, including the involvement of the United Nations and international arbitration, the dispute remains unresolved. In 2023, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled that it has jurisdiction to settle the matter, prompting both countries to continue their legal and diplomatic engagements. The outcome of the dispute has significant implications not only for national sovereignty but also for the economic and geopolitical interests of both Guyana and Venezuela, as well as the wider region.
Germany has played a supportive role in addressing the Guyana-Venezuela border crisis, mostly through diplomatic and humanitarian assistance. In recent years, Germany has been part of international efforts to resolve the territorial dispute between the two countries. Germany has provided financial aid to support refugees and displaced individuals. Additionally, Germany has engaged in multilateral discussions, backing the work of organizations like the United Nations and the Organization of American States (OAS) to promote peaceful negotiations and conflict resolution. Germany’s contributions have helped strengthen Guyana’s ability to manage the border issue while also offering support to Venezuela’s refugees and migrants through aid and advocacy for human rights.
Germany’s future involvement in the Guyana-Venezuela border crisis is likely to focus on continued diplomatic support, humanitarian assistance, and fostering multilateral efforts for peaceful resolution. Germany has consistently backed negotiations as the best way to resolve the territorial dispute between Guyana and Venezuela. Germany will likely continue to support initiatives led by the United Nations and other international bodies to encourage both countries to engage in peaceful dialogue and follow international legal rulings. On the humanitarian side, Germany is expected to continue providing aid to the growing number of Venezuelan refugees and migrants in the region, particularly in Guyana. This assistance could include funding for refugee services, healthcare, education, and integration programs. Additionally, Germany may increase its support for local capacity-building in border regions, helping Guyana manage the social and economic pressures from an influx of refugees.
https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/aussenpolitik/guyana/233294
https://rusi.org/explore-our-research/publications/commentary/venezuela-guyana-dispute-and-brazils-foreign-policy-ambitions
https://reporting.unhcr.org/donors/germany
