—Community trust, social stability central to Guyana’s long-term security strategy

Churches, civil society organisations, clubs and community groups must play an important role in Guyana’s evolving national security architecture, as government moves to build a more “people-centric” security system.
Speaking during a press conference on Friday, President Dr Irfaan Ali stressed that national security extends beyond policing and surveillance, noting that stronger communities, social stability and public trust are essential to long-term crime prevention and national development.
According to President Ali, while government is investing heavily in advanced technology, artificial intelligence and integrated security infrastructure, equal emphasis is being placed on community involvement and social intervention programmes.
“For us in all of this, people-centric community security and social stability is important,” the President said while outlining the broader security strategy planned through 2030.
He explained that key elements of the national approach include strengthening community policing, increasing youth engagement, building trust within communities and implementing anti-radicalisation initiatives aimed at addressing emerging social risks before they escalate.
“So, we want to have where we see communities are at risk with maybe criminal networks and radicalisation taking place, in a very proactive way, using the tools, going to those communities, have programmes, build out strategies to counter those anti-radicalisation programmes,” President Ali said.
The President noted that civil society organisations, religious institutions and community groups are expected to play a collaborative role in fostering safer and more resilient communities.
“Building trust, building confidence, mentoring and coaching, youth programmes, youth engagement programmes, building out our recreational facilities, channelling energy in positive direction, building stronger families, stronger communities, social protection system, involving the churches, involving civil society, involving the clubs in building stronger communities, more secure, friendly communities,” he stated.
President Ali said the government’s wider security vision seeks to balance technological modernization with social development and citizen participation.
The administration’s broader plan includes the rollout of AI-powered surveillance systems, smart police stations, integrated intelligence-sharing, cyber security infrastructure and expanded CCTV coverage across the country.
However, the President maintained that technology alone cannot guarantee national security without stronger social systems and community trust.
He added that the government’s objective is to create a security model that not only responds to crime and threats, but also proactively addresses social vulnerabilities through partnership and engagement.
The wider national security architecture is being developed with support from regional and international partners and is expected to be implemented progressively through 2030.