PRESIDENT David Granger, commenting recently on his high hopes for engagement with the leader of the opposition, has restated government’s commitment to inclusionary democracy.

The President iterated that the door remains open to talks with the opposition. Inclusionary democracy is the constitutional ideal prescribed by Article 13 of the constitution, which states that: “The principal objective of the political system of the State is to establish an inclusionary democracy by providing increasing opportunities for the participation of citizens and their organisations in the management and decision-making processes of the State, with particular emphasis on those areas of decision-making that directly affect their well-being.”

The administration has repeatedly emphasised its determination to the full realisation of that ideal. Further, the coalition believes that true inclusionary democracy may best be achieved by strengthening social cohesion.

The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) defines a cohesive society as, “[one that] works towards the well-being of all its members, fights exclusion and marginalisation, creates a sense of belonging, promotes trust, and offers its members the opportunity of upward mobility.” The national society is made up of communities and a cohesive community is defined as, “[One in which] the diversity of people’s different backgrounds and circumstances is appreciated and positively valued, those from different backgrounds have similar life opportunities, and strong and positive relationships are being developed between people from different backgrounds and circumstances in the workplace, in schools and within neighbourhoods.” Government subscribes to those definitions, and will work towards their actualisation, as a step along the path to inclusionary democracy.

President Granger, in recognising the need for social cohesion, has identified obstructions to its realisation in Guyana. According to His Excellency, “. . . differences between various social groups continue to threaten mutual trust.” Such differences, says the President, include economic, ethnic, political, religious, and class differences. The President has stated that, “We have to repair that damage.” With that goal in mind, and, having identified the obstacles to its achievement, The President, at the Roundtable on Social Cohesion on September 3, 2015, articulated a five-point plan.

First, elimination of extreme poverty. Too many Guyanese, being extremely poor, cannot afford a minimally nutritious diet. On the other hand, some Guyanese are very rich. This disparity in economic circumstances between the large masses of poor people and the wealthy few is an impediment to cohesion. Thus, government must continue to create the conditions to narrow that gap.

Second, elimination of inequality. Gender, geographic, and other forms of inequality must be removed. Everyone – male or female, coastlander or hinterland resident – must have equitable access to developmental opportunities. Segregated communities, which foster ethnic insecurities, must be abolished. Government, through such initiatives as hinterland electrification, and the establishment of capital towns will continue to work towards decentralised engines of development, and towards real equity for all Guyanese.

Third, promotion of political inclusion. This inclusion will start at the neighbourhoods and extend through regional and national tiers of government. While government will actively encourage citizen-participation, individuals and groups must make use of the opportunities to actively become involved in political activities, and offer themselves as political representatives.

Fourth, employment and social protection. Government will work on the legislative level to promote fair employment practices, equitable opportunities, safe workplaces, and environmentally sustainable practices. Enforcement of existing laws are also part of the agenda. Labour bodies, unions and other workers’ representatives also have a role, as they should treat fairly with government and private employers to create the best conditions for all concerned.

Fifth, Equal access to education. Education is the great equaliser. As such, the administration will continue to pursue an agenda of equity of access to quality education. As was recently iterated by The President, the drop-out rate continues to be of great concern. Therefore, while enrolment is being monitored, continuation will be on the front-burner. Further, government recognises that for a child to learn he must be fed, clothed, and sheltered. He must also have a home environment conducive to learning. Government programmes will continue to be implemented with those considerations in mind.

President Granger has repeatedly emphasised that greater integration among groups will foster a sense of belonging; no one should feel left out. All cultures must be respected and admired for the beauty that they bring to the national tapestry. President Granger’s emphasis on continued dialogue with the opposition – which represents almost half of Guyanese – should, therefore, come as no surprise. Such continuous engagement is fully in line with the administration’s stated goal of inclusionary democracy as prescribed by the constitution. And while government pursues that agenda, opposition leaders should also commit to actions which will engender cohesion at all levels of society.