CARICOM flags misuse of its platforms in Guyana-Venezuela dispute

April 28 2026

President Irfaan Ali has raised concerns with regional leaders over what he described as provocative displays supporting Venezuela’s claim to Guyana’s Essequibo region during recent Caribbean engagements.

In a letter to CARICOM Chairman and Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, Terrance Drew, Ali warned that the public showcasing of maps by Venezuela’s Acting President, Delcy Rodriguez, depicting Essequibo as Venezuelan territory risks undermining the region’s principled stance.

He cautioned that the use of regional platforms in this way could be interpreted as acceptance or tolerance of a claim that is currently before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for final determination.

Ali stressed that Guyana respects the right of Caribbean states to engage bilaterally with Venezuela but maintained that such engagements should not be used—intentionally or otherwise—to promote territorial claims against a fellow member state.

In response, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) reiterated its longstanding support for Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, while reminding member states of their obligations under the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas.

The regional body underscored that its forums must not be used to advance or appear to legitimise claims that are under judicial review, reaffirming its commitment to the rule of law and peaceful dispute resolution.

Guyana maintains that its boundary with Venezuela was definitively settled by the 1899 Arbitral Award, a position it continues to defend before the ICJ.

President Ali also referenced a 2023 court order directing both countries to avoid actions that could escalate tensions or alter the status quo in the disputed territory.

The developments come as Guyana continues to press for vigilance among regional partners, insisting that CARICOM’s support must be reflected not only in statements but also in the conduct of official engagements.