– calls for international action to uphold rule of law and democracy
IN a resolute statement, the Freedom and Democracy Group has categorically condemned the recent attempts by Nicolás Maduro and the Venezuelan government to address their territorial claims over Guyana in an undemocratic and unilateral manner, disregarding the established international order.

The group emphatically reaffirms its belief that differences between states should be resolved through bilateral agreements and mechanisms established by international law. Dialogue, agreements, and full respect for international law are highlighted as the only avenues to achieve peaceful, fair, and sustainable solutions over time.

In the case of the territorial dispute between Guyana and Venezuela, the Freedom and Democracy Group acknowledges the correct submission of the matter to the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice. They firmly believe that this body is competent to address and resolve the ongoing issue.

The group strongly criticises what it perceives as an opportunistic celebration of the referendum held on December 3, asserting that such mechanisms are not valid for resolving territorial issues between sovereign states. They condemn Venezuela’s attempt to use the referendum to legitimise a perceived threat against Guyana’s territorial integrity, sovereignty, international law, and peace in the region.

The public presentation of a map annexing Guyana Esequiba to Venezuela, the movement of Venezuelan Army troops on the border, the creation of a new region called Guayana Esequiba, and Nicolás Maduro’s recent aggressive rhetoric are deemed events of utmost seriousness. The Freedom and Democracy Group calls for clear, firm, and transversal condemnation from the international community, especially the United Nations and the OAS.

The group emphasises Nicolás Maduro’s regime’s decades-long violation of international law, democratic principles, and human rights in Venezuela. They view this attempt to threaten Guyana’s territorial integrity as another urgent example of the need to reinstate freedoms, the rule of law, and democracy in Venezuela. The group calls for more effective international governance to prevent and control such abuses.

Highlighting the gravity of the situation, the group notes that Venezuela’s actions violate a binding order from the International Court of Justice, explicitly prohibiting any action that changes the status of the disputed territory.
The Freedom and Democracy Group reiterates its call to the international community to demand the implementation of a fair, free, and transparent electoral process in Venezuela. They emphasise that such a process is crucial for ensuring a transition towards a more free, democratic, fair, and prosperous Venezuela. The group urges collective action to safeguard democracy and uphold the principles of international law in the region.