The Constitution Reform Commission of Guyana recently participated in an intensive Constitution Education Programme aimed at deepening members’ understanding of key constitutional principles that can strengthen the relationship between the state and its citizens and guide the government to act more effectively in the public interest.
The programme, which ran from April 14 to 17, 2025, brought together members of the Commission for sessions led by two internationally respected constitutional scholars—Dr. Elliott Bulmer and Professor Christine Murray. The initiative was made possible through support from the Netherlands-based International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA).
Dr. Elliott Bulmer, an independent consultant with International IDEA, is a noted expert in constitutional development, democracy, and good governance, particularly in Commonwealth countries. Since 2023, he has advised on constitutional reform processes in several Caribbean nations, including Barbados, Belize, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, and Trinidad and Tobago. His most recent work includes Constitutional Reform in the Commonwealth Caribbean, co-published by the UNDP and International IDEA in 2024.
Dr. Bulmer previously served as a logistics officer in the Royal Navy and held academic positions in Scotland, including as Research Director at the Scottish Constitutional Commission and Lecturer in Politics at the University of Dundee.
Joining him in facilitating the programme was Professor Christine Murray, Professor Emeritus of Human Rights and Constitutional Law at the University of Cape Town. A veteran of numerous constitutional reform initiatives worldwide, Professor Murray has advised on constitution-making in South Africa, Kenya, and Fiji, among others. She has also worked closely with UN bodies and civil society groups in countries such as Yemen, Tunisia, Nepal, and Zimbabwe, lending her expertise to both peace processes and democratic transitions.
The Constitution Education Programme provided Commission members with insight into constitution-making processes, institutional reform, and governance frameworks from both regional and global perspectives. It is expected to inform the Commission’s ongoing work as it prepares for national consultations and deliberations on possible constitutional amendments.
Members of the Constitution Reform Commission expressed their gratitude to International IDEA, Professor Murray, and Dr. Bulmer for their contributions and commitment to the programme’s success.
This information was provided in a press release issued by the Constitution Reform Commission Secretariat.
