THE Ethnic Relations Commission’s (ERC’s) Annual Report stated that 2009 was a successful year and that the commission implemented its work plan unhindered.

ERC community conference in Bush Lot, Region 5

It engaged thousands of Guyanese in meaningful discussions during its various outreach programmes; which ranged from Constituency Meetings, Women’s Conferences and Inter/Intra Community Dialogue, all aimed at promoting harmony and good relations.

Particular emphasis was placed on empowering and equipping residents at the community level, with the necessary skills to build healthy relationships with each other and, ultimately, to live in peace and harmony.

In July, the Commission commenced the Neighbourhood Conference Project under the theme, “Enhancing local capacity for participation in governance and the development of initiatives to resolve conflicts and contribute to community security” with specific objectives:

* to encourage active participation by community members in the establishment of effective Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs),

* to enable community members to develop the capacity and skills to work together for the good of the community, and;

* to equip communities with dispute resolution skills.

Fifty-six Neighbourhood conferences were held, in 2009, in all 10 regions.

During these sessions, the ERC interacted with approximately 2,500 Guyanese from all ethnic, religious and cultural backgrounds.

ERC conference in Linden

At the end of discussions, the Conference concluded with residents, symbolically, signing a personal pledge of commitment to ensure peaceful communities, where everyone is involved in the internal development agenda of their particular location.

Problem solving and trouble shooting of contentious issues and situations are also facilitated by ERC’s Complaints Desk, at all conferences held countrywide.

WOMEN’S CONFERENCES
Commencing on May 20 and concluding December 15, the Commission conducted 12 Women’s Conferences in all 10 administrative regions as part of the body’s “strategic priorities” for 2009 and in keeping with its mandate of promoting harmony and good relations. During this period approximately 900 women were consulted.

The aim of the workshops was to provide a forum where women as nurturers, caregivers and mothers from all fabric of society could assemble and freely express their thoughts, opinions, and views on issues related to the Guyanese society and make recommendations for the improvement of their communities in this regard.

Further, the women gave their commitment to playing their role in ensuring peaceful communities where people can live in harmony, working together and are united.

CONSTITUENCY MEETINGS
In August, the Commission met with members of the Hindu, Muslim and Christian Constituencies as well as representatives of Women, Labour, Private Sector, Youth and Civil Society.

The meetings sought feedback on the work of the Commission, including current projects being undertaken, listen to their concerns and determine how best the ERC can assist in conflict resolution.

Representatives pledged their support to the Commission’s programmes and urged the ERC to continue the work it was constitutionally mandated to do.

The first meeting was held with 13 representatives of the Hindu community, 9 from the Muslim community and 12 women representatives, while 20 persons participated in the Christian Constituency meeting, 12 from youth organisations, 10 from Labour organisations, 9 from the Private Sector and 15 from Civil Society.

During the interaction, several issues were discussed and recommendations were made on how to resolve these issues. These were recorded by the Commission and will be followed-up.

ENHANCING ETHNIC SECURITY
Enhancing ethnic security and harmony has always been, and will continue to be the focus of the Commission. The ERC urged the Security Forces to operate within the context of their Constitutional mandate and always observe best practices and the rule of law.

It was expressed that the Security Forces must recognise that Guyana is a vibrantly unique and distinct society, composed of a sensitive environment and the opinions and concerns of this country’s citizens must be taken into consideration when formulating their p
rogrammes and executing operations.

The ERC is a Constitutional, non-political body established by Constitution Amendment (No. 2) Act 11 of 2000, which amends article 212 D of the Constitution to provide for the establishment of an Ethnic Relations Commission.

Its functions, as set out in Article 212 D of the Constitution, are all embracing and divided in 24 categories which can be further grouped as; Conflict Resolution, Education and Public Awareness and Research and Development Strategies. (GINA)