Topic:
Country: United Kingdom
Delegate Name: Mikey Beusse
Committee: Specpol
Topic: The Situation in Guyana
Country: United Kingdom
Delegate: Mikey Beusse (East Grand Rapids)
The situation in the Essequibo region started in 1814 with the Treaty of London. This resulted in Great Britain gaining control over several territories: the Demerara, Berbice, and Essequibo colonies. It resulted in what was known as British Guiana expanding and the border with Venezuela. However, the border between these two countries was undefined. This unclear border caused Venezuela to dispute it in 1841. However, the dispute wasn’t resolved until 1899 when American arbitrators gave control over the land in question to Britain Guiana. In 1966, Guyana gained independence from European control which brought up the discussion of the border with Venezuela once again. The issue needs a proper and peaceful resolution since oil was discovered in the Essequibo region in 2015.
The United Kingdom is closely related to this issue as we had past control over the Essequibo. The Treaty of London in 1814, led us to grow control in the northern region in South America. However, our say over this region is nullified now that Guyana is an independent country. The United Kingdom had problems trying to resolve the border debate with Venezuela, so we know this issue will be hard to resolve peacefully.
The most recent standing was when American arbitrators gave control over that land to Britain Guiana, which Venezuela begrudgingly accepted. Since Britain Guiana became Guyana once they were free from European control, it seems as if that land and the oil with it should be given to Guyana. However, Venezuela claimed that with the formation of the new nation of Guyana, the old solution in 1899 with the American arbitrators had been nullified. The current standing of who controls the land is currently unresolved.
The United Kingdom believes that a compromise is necessary in this situation. Oil is one of the main contributors to the economy in Venezuela. On the other hand, the same can be said with Guyana. It is stated that while Guyana has a stable economy, it is almost too reliant on oil. Since the situation is becoming more tense between the two countries, it does not seem possible they will reach a bilateral agreement. Because of this, the United Kingdom would support a neutral opinion to decide on a resolution. This could be done by the International Court of Justice (ICJ). This court would provide a definite standing that is completely neutral. It would also make sure that the situation does not get too hostile.
