Guyana Venezuela dispute

16 Jan 2024 4 mins Download PDF

Context: A British warship has arrived in Guyana amid rising tensions from a border dispute between the former British colony and Venezuela

Factors Contributing to Tensions:

Territorial Dispute: The primary cause of tension is the longstanding territorial dispute over the Essequibo region, a significant part of Guyana. Venezuela disputes the 1899 Arbitral Award that established the border, claiming historical grievances.

1. 1899 Arbitral Award:
   • The 1899 Award settled the boundary dispute, allocating the majority of the disputed territory to British Guiana. Venezuela consistently challenges the legitimacy of this ruling.
2. Oil and Natural Resources:
   • The discovery of oil reserves in Guyana's Stabroek Block intensified tensions, as the disputed Essequibo region is believed to be Resource-rich. Venezuela objected to Guyana's oil exploration, escalating the dispute.
3. Political Changes and Regional Dynamics:
   • Changes in political leadership in both nations influenced the dispute, sometimes exploiting historical grievances for domestic support.
4. Diplomatic Efforts:
   • Past diplomatic efforts, involving the UN, US, and regional organizations, failed to yield a resolution.
5. International Involvement:
   • The international community generally supports Guyana's sovereignty based on the 1899 Award. Venezuela seeks to internationalize the issue and challenges the award's validity.
6. Military Posturing:
   • Instances of military posturing by both nations raised concerns about potential conflict.

Way Ahead - Suggestions for Resolution:

1. International Mediation: Encourage international mediation facilitated by neutral parties like the UN or OAS for constructive dialogue.
2. Bilateral Talks: Promote direct, open, and sincere bilateral talks to address underlying issues.
3. Utilize Regional Organizations: Leverage regional organizations like CARICOM for dialogue and regional cooperation.
4. Legal Clarification: Seek legal clarification on the 1899 Award, potentially referring the matter to the ICJ.
5. Economic Cooperation: Explore economic cooperation and joint ventures to reduce tensions.
6. People-to-People Diplomacy: Promote cultural exchanges and joint projects to foster positive relations at the grassroots level.

7. Conflict Prevention Mechanisms: Establish mechanisms for conflict prevention, including transparency in military activities.

8. Engage International Community:  Seek support from the international community for a peaceful resolution.

9. Long-Term Vision: Develop a long-term vision for regional cooperation addressing underlying issues.

10. Public Diplomacy: Engage in public diplomacy to garner public support for diplomatic solutions. Both nations need commitment to dialogue, compromise, and a shared vision for regional stability. Success requires patience, perseverance, and a genuine willingness to find common ground.