–Bloc reaffirms “unequivocal support” for Guyana, backs ICJ process
The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has issued a firm statement cautioning against the use of regional engagements to advance Venezuela’s claim to Guyana’s Essequibo region, reinforcing its longstanding support for Guyana’s sovereignty.
In a statement dated April 28, 2026, the regional body acknowledged recent engagements within CARICOM where material asserting Venezuela’s claim was publicly displayed, while also noting correspondence from President Mohamed Irfaan Ali raising “grave concern” over the development.
CARICOM made it clear that while member states retain the sovereign right to conduct bilateral relations, those engagements must align with the Community’s legal and diplomatic obligations under the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas.
“At the centre of those commitments stands the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas… [which] commits Members to the preservation of the Community’s integrity and cohesion in their external relations,” the statement outlined.
Critically, the regional bloc drew a red line on the use of its platforms in the ongoing border controversy, which is currently before the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
“Community platforms and engagements should not be used, whether directly or indirectly, to advance or appear to legitimise claims that are the subject of ongoing judicial proceedings before the International Court of Justice,” CARICOM stated.
The organisation reiterated that its position on the matter remains unchanged, underscoring full backing for Guyana’s territorial integrity and the judicial process as the legitimate pathway to resolution.
“The Community’s longstanding and unequivocal support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Guyana… remains firm and unchanged.”
This stance is consistent with CARICOM’s historical position, which has repeatedly emphasised adherence to international law and peaceful dispute resolution through the ICJ.
CARICOM further stressed that member states must balance sovereign decision-making with collective responsibility, particularly in sensitive geopolitical matters that could impact regional stability.
“CARICOM remains committed to unity, to the rule of law, and to the peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law,” the statement red.
President Ali, in his earlier correspondence, had also warned that Venezuela’s actions, particularly the use of maps and official displays, seek to “normalise… what it has failed to establish in law,” adding that such conduct undermines confidence in peaceful resolution and international legal processes.
He further reminded CARICOM leaders of their longstanding and unequivocal support for Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, urging vigilance in maintaining the Community’s principled stance.
The Head of State also referenced the ICJ’s December 1, 2023, order, which requires Venezuela to refrain from actions that would alter the status quo in the territory in the controversy.
Reaffirming Guyana’s position, Ali pointed to the 1899 Arbitral Award as the legal basis for the country’s borders, describing it as a “full, perfect and final settlement.”
Guyana, he said, remains fully committed to the judicial process and expects all states, including Venezuela, to act in accordance with international law.“At the same time, Guyana expects all States, including Venezuela, to act consistently with the principles of the United Nations Charter, refrain from provocation, and respect the ongoing judicial process, he added.
