GUYANA is at a crucial moment in the fight against gender-based violence. As the country began the 16 Days of Activism on November 25, the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security unveiled a range of initiatives that show real government commitment.
However, intent alone is not enough. For this campaign to bring about real change in a nation where about half of women have faced some form of violence in their lives, Guyana must turn these initiatives into lasting, systemic accountability.
Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud’s focus on three key areas—awareness, breaking stigma, and supporting survivors—shows a promising shift in how Guyana addresses this ongoing social issue.
The Orange Corner of Support initiative effectively redefines violence prevention as a shared responsibility rather than just a private family issue, breaking the damaging silence that has historically allowed offenders to act without fear.
Another innovative effort is the National Gender Equality and Empowerment Seal, which offers market incentives for gender compliance. This marketplace approach recognises an important fact: lasting behaviour change often needs institutional and reputational consequences instead of just moral persuasion. Companies that do not meet standards face public scrutiny, while those that do are recognised for their efforts.
Yet, without enforcement, innovation is just for show. The seal system, the Orange Corners, and the awareness workshops are good starting points, but Guyana’s history with gender-based violence shows that more is needed. The country’s legal framework has greatly improved—the Family Violence Act of 2024 is a significant advance—but there are still major gaps in implementation.
Police officers who now have more authority to intervene in domestic violence cases will act only if cultural attitudes change. Orange Corners will encourage real support only if communities see them as valid alternatives to traditional power structures. The Gender Equality Seal has no value if companies view enforcement as weak.
Including men through initiatives such as the “Big Brave Circle” is a smart and necessary move. Men are not just an add-on in solving this issue; they are crucial. When prominent male leaders—ministers and community members—talk openly about mental health, wellness, and respectful behaviour, it allows other men to reflect on their own roles in these issues.
However, this effort could become superficial if it is reduced to a one-off event. It is vital to integrate men as stakeholders in accountability structures, not only in awareness campaigns.
A significant question remains: will these initiatives last beyond December 10? The 16 Days are recognised globally every year, but gender-based violence is an everyday reality in Guyana. The ministry’s commitment to regional community advocacy and free legal support suggests a desire for continuity, but government resources are always limited. Civil society groups, private sector partners, and faith communities must acknowledge that this moment is an opportunity for them to take charge.
The necessary groundwork is in place; the narrative is changing; the political will seems evident. The crucial question is whether Guyanese society will choose accountability over comfort.
Guyana has a thorough and effective model for responding to gender-based violence that has gained regional attention. It would be ironic and tragic if this model, like many promising policies, ended up looking more impressive on paper than in reality.
The 16 Days of Activism should not be just a national performance; they need to be a starting point for breaking down the deep-rooted patterns of violence in Guyana’s society. This work requires collective courage, strong institutional discipline, and the bravery to confront not only distant offenders but also neighbours, colleagues, and perhaps oneself.