— urges rights-based labour strategy amid rapid growth

WITH more than a third of Guyanese living abroad, families have long been stretched across borders—sending remittances, sharing knowledge, and staying connected from afar.
Now, as Guyana experiences a wave of economic transformation, the International Labour Organization (ILO) Caribbean Office is applauding the government’s renewed efforts to formally engage its diaspora, calling it a strategic move that recognises the vital role ordinary citizens both at home and abroad can play in shaping the country’s future.

In written responses to questions posed by Guyana, ILO representatives highlighted that diaspora engagement plays a critical role in achieving sustainable development.
“Guyana’s initiative to engage its diaspora is a highly positive and strategic move, given that more than a third of its population lives abroad, making it one of the largest diaspora communities in the world.
“From the ILO’s perspective, diaspora engagement is crucial for sustainable development, as it enables the transfer of skills and investment needed to diversify the economy and create decent jobs,” it said.
The ILO pointed out that effective diaspora policies not only help bridge skills gaps, but also foster innovation and strengthen social and professional networks, essential ingredients as Guyana seeks to diversify beyond its booming oil and gas sector.
“Effective diaspora policies help bridge skills gaps, foster innovation, and strengthen social and professional networks, all of which are vital as Guyana navigates its economic transformation and works toward inclusive, long-term growth.”
In 2020, the PPP/C administration resuscitated the Diaspora Unit and rekindled stakeholder engagement through targeted programmes. Virtual conferences, webinars, and international job fairs—held in New York, Trinidad, and Suriname—have been instrumental in rekindling interest among diasporic communities.

Over the past four years, the government has approved more than 1,200 re-migrant applications, a testament to the growing allure of Guyana as a destination for its diaspora.
The policies Guyana has been pursuing have seen changes to the re-migrant scheme, ensuring that the skills and expertise of overseas Guyanese are effectively harnessed for national development.
While strengthening ties with its diaspora, Guyana has simultaneously expanded its diplomatic footprint. In 2023, the establishment of new embassies and missions in Qatar, the UAE, and The Dominican Republic marked a significant step in elevating Guyana’s global visibility.

RAPID GROWTH
The ILO further noted that Guyana’s rapid economic ascent, fuelled by oil development, is creating waves of both excitement and concern in equal measure.
While the influx of investment and growth potential presents substantial opportunity, the ILO cautions that it must be matched with a strong labour rights framework and proactive workforce planning.
“Guyana’s rapid economic growth, driven by oil and gas development, presents significant opportunities but also challenges for the labour market,” the ILO said, adding: “To ensure workers benefit fairly, it is essential to strengthen labour rights, promote decent work, and invest in skills development aligned with emerging industries.”

The organisation underscored the importance of a rights-based approach to development, calling for safeguards to ensure that job creation does not undermine occupational safety, social protection, or fair wages.
“A rights-based approach must ensure that job creation does not come at the expense of occupational safety, social protection, or fair wages. Social dialogue is key to building a resilient and inclusive workforce,” the ILO said.
Earlier this month the 13th International Labour Organization (ILO) Meeting of Caribbean Labour Ministers was held in Guyana.

The massive conference, which was held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), was a key platform for regional collaboration, bringing together stakeholders to shape a more resilient and equitable labour landscape in the Caribbean.
The signing of the third Decent Work Country Programme also took place at the opening of the conference, marking a significant step in solidifying the tripartite commitment to fostering a harmonious labour market.