Topic: 2024-The Situation in Guyana
Country: Spain
Delegate Name: Wyatt Keller
Topic: 2024-The Situation in Guyana
Country: Spain
Committee: Special Political Committee
Delegate Name: Wyatt Keller
School: New Prairie High School
The Resurgence of Tensions in the Essequibo Region
A previously settled border dispute has become a source of renewed tension. The Essequibo region, located on the Venezuela-Guyana border, has long been a point of contention. A previous ruling, consistently rejected by Venezuela, declared the area rightfully part of Guyana. The discovery of significant oil reserves offshore in 2015 further inflamed these tensions. In 2023, Venezuela renewed its claim to the Essequibo region, prompting the involvement of the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Despite this, Venezuela has continued to bolster its military presence near the disputed territory.
Spain’s Position
Spain’s perspective aligns with the general stance of the European Union. As a member of both the United Nations and the European Union, Spain firmly believes that conflicts should be resolved through diplomacy and recourse to international law. Therefore, Spain fully supports the ongoing proceedings before the International Court of Justice and will respect its final ruling.
The stability of the region is of paramount importance to Spain, given our strong trade partnerships and diplomatic relationships within Latin America. With utmost respect for previous rulings, pre-existing international law, and established boundaries, Spain has a vested interest in a peaceful and prosperous Essequibo region, both economically and socially.
Promoting Peaceful Resolution
Spain’s policies prioritize regional stability, upholding international law, and discouraging military escalation. Given our established relationships in the region, Spain strongly supports efforts by regional organizations, such as CARICOM, to mediate and de-escalate tensions. As a champion of international law, Spain urges all parties to adhere to its principles and allow established processes to resolve the conflict.
Let us be clear: war benefits no one and must be avoided at all costs. Therefore, Spain calls upon Venezuela to withdraw its military build-up and urges both sides to cease all armed activities on the border.
Works Cited
Arbitral Award of 3 October 1899 (Guyana v. Venezuela). International Court of Justice. https://www.icj-cij.org/case/171 (Accessed November 25, 2024)
Border Controversy between Guyana and Venezuela | Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs. United Nations. https://press.un.org/en/2024/sc15665.doc.htm (Accessed November 25, 2024)
The CARICOM Secretariat. caricom.org (Accessed November 25, 2024)
