GUYANA is currently hosting a pivotal Legal Conference on Criminal Justice Reform, focusing on the Needham’s Point Declaration.
This significant event, organised by the Government of Guyana through the Attorney General’s Chambers and the Ministry of Legal Affairs, in partnership with the CCJ Academy of Law and funded by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), underscores Guyana’s commitment to transforming its legal landscape.

The conference will see participation from a diverse group of stakeholders, including legislators, government officials, judges from the Caribbean Court of Justice, national and regional judicial officers, academics, law students, civil society representatives, and experts from international organizations. The Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC, a seasoned legal luminary, will be present to support and guide this transformative initiative.

The Commonwealth Secretary-General, who has a distinguished career, including serving as the Attorney General of England and Wales, highlighted the importance of justice reform. She emphasized, “Justice is at the very heart of ensuring that we have a society that is not only enabling but equitable. We are charged to deliver justice, particularly for the poor, the marginalized, the silenced, and the vulnerable. We can use the law as a weapon against injustice and wield it with skill whilst empowering the next generation.”
This conference represents a bold step by the Government of Guyana, showcasing a commitment to accessible and equitable justice. The consultative and collaborative approach taken by regional stakeholders signals a unified effort to advance justice reform in the country. The Commonwealth Secretariat, known for its technical assistance and development of model laws, templates, and toolkits, stands ready to support Guyana’s endeavours.

Recently, the Commonwealth Secretariat honoured legal luminaries who contributed to the Commonwealth Model Law on Virtual Assets, launched at the Commonwealth Law Ministers Meeting in Tanzania. Additionally, the Secretariat produced a Commonwealth Carbon Tax Model Law to provide a legal framework for reducing emissions and combatting climate change. These efforts, along with resources like the Law and Climate Change toolkit and the Commonwealth’s Anti-corruption Benchmarks, demonstrate the Secretariat’s dedication to addressing contemporary challenges.

During her visit to the Caribbean, the Commonwealth Secretary-General will also assess how the Secretariat can further support recovery efforts following Hurricane Beryl. The devastation caused by the hurricane has re-inforced her advocacy for climate justice, reform of the global financial architecture, and greater equity for small and vulnerable states. The Commonwealth Secretariat’s Rapid Response Framework has been activated to aid recovery and build resilience for the future.

At the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa, the theme “One Resilient Common Future by transforming our Common Wealth” will be at the forefront, reflecting a collective responsibility for the earth and a commitment to sustainability. The Commonwealth, with its 56 member countries, including 33 small states, is dedicated to shared goals of development, democracy, and peace, as enshrined in the Commonwealth Charter.
Guyana’s initiative to reform its criminal justice system, supported by the Commonwealth, exemplifies the collaborative spirit and shared values that bind member states.
As we look to the future, it is through such partnerships and shared commitments that we can build more just, equitable, and resilient societies.