IN a landmark decision on December 1, 2023, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) issued a unanimous Order, granting provisional measures against Venezuela in response to Guyana’s plea.
The Order, crucially, restrains Venezuela from altering the current situation in the disputed Essequibo region until a final decision is reached.

The ICJ’s ruling must be commended as a resolute commitment to upholding international law and maintaining the status quo, urging Venezuela to respect the principles that govern peaceful coexistence.

The ICJ’s decision comes as a beacon of justice, emphasising that Venezuela must not annex or encroach upon Guyanese territory, irrespective of the outcome of its impending referendum on December 3.

This ruling, legally binding on Venezuela, underscores the obligations set forth by the UN Charter and the Statute of the Court, emphasising strict compliance.

Guyana, demonstrating unwavering commitment to the international judicial process and the rule of law, awaits the ICJ’s final judgment with confidence that the Essequibo region rightfully belongs to Guyana under the Arbitral Award of 1899.

Advocating for justice over force in resolving international disputes, Guyana stresses the importance of pursuing a peaceful, legal resolution through the ICJ, as authorized by the UN Secretary-General in the Geneva Agreement of 1966.

The international community’s solidarity with Guyana is acknowledged and deemed invaluable. A heartfelt appeal is extended to sister countries of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the broader international community to continue supporting justice and international law regarding the Guyana-Venezuela border dispute.

The collective voice of nations, echoing the principles of the United Nations Charter, the rule of law, and peaceful dispute resolution, stands as a powerful force for righteousness.

As Guyana prepares to join the UN Security Council, it recognises the responsibility that accompanies this role — fostering international peace, stability, and the rule of law. The editorial urges all peace-loving nations to insist on Venezuela’s respect for the UN Charter and the ICJ’s decisions, reaffirming the commitment to maintaining the region as a Zone of Peace.

Meanwhile, the Commonwealth, in response to the ICJ’s decision, notes the importance of maintaining due process, respect for national territorial sovereignty, international law, and global order. The organisation expresses deep concern about Venezuela’s planned referendum on December 3, which challenges the ICJ’s jurisdiction and proposes actions that could violate the territorial integrity of Guyana.

Expressing full support for Guyana, a valued Commonwealth member, the organisation is heartened by the solidarity exhibited by CARICOM nations and various states. The Commonwealth condemns any actions that may breach peace in the region and emphasises the importance of upholding the sanctity and binding nature of the ICJ’s decisions.

In a clear call to all United Nations members, the Commonwealth urges parties involved to respect the integrity of the ICJ’s decisions and the binding provisional measures under Article 41 of the ICJ Statute. The organisation unequivocally condemns any actions that could disrupt peace and calls for a diplomatic and peaceful resolution, offering support to both governments for the benefit of the region’s people and future generations.

As this international legal drama unfolds, the unified voice of the ICJ and the Commonwealth underscores the collective commitment to justice, diplomacy, and the peaceful resolution of disputes, serving as a model for the world in the pursuit of peace, truth, and justice.