IFAAD, an organisation, dedicated to championing equality, human rights, and combating discrimination in all forms, says it firmly stands with the Government of Guyana in defense of its territorial integrity and the right to self-determination. The Essequibo region, which has been the subject of a long-standing border controversy between Venezuela and Guyana, cannot be settled through coercion, manipulation, or illegal means, we must await the ruling of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the Institute contends.
Â
And even as Guyanese await the ICJ’s ruling on the border controversy, IFAAD says we must also condemn Venezuela disregard for the unanimous ruling of the ICJ on December 1, 2023, barring Venezuela from taking any action to change the status quo whilst there is an active case before the Court.Â
President Maduro’s decision to proceed with the referendum, after the Court’s Order, in a region internationally recognised and is part of Guyana is a direct affront to international law and the will of the Guyanese people and an assault on the tenets of democracy.Â
Â
Further, the Venezuelan Government’s action undermines the importance of the rule of law, diplomatic negotiations and the peaceful resolution of differences (controversy), which are vital for maintaining worldwide harmony and stability.
Â
IFAAD therefore calls upon the international community, regional organisations, and responsible leaders worldwide to condemn Maduro’s actions unequivocally. We urge them to support Guyana and demand respect for the rule of law, sovereignty, and the territorial integrity of nations.
Â
IFAAD reiterates its commitment to fostering dialogue, understanding, and finding peaceful resolutions to conflicts rooted in discrimination, inequality, and injustice. We stand ready to collaborate with interested parties to promote legal and diplomatic resolutions to the Essequibo controversy, while upholding the principles of respect for international law, human rights, and democratic values.
