Guyana reaffirms human rights and democracy commitments at IPU Assembly

Guyana has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening democratic institutions, protecting fundamental human rights, and ensuring social inclusion. Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy, delivered this statement to the Standing Committee on Democracy and Human Rights during the 153rd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Arusha, Tanzania.

Minister McCoy emphasized that democracy and human rights are essential to the dignity of citizens and the legitimacy of national institutions. He highlighted Guyana’s participation in its fourth Universal Periodic Review in 2025, where the country supported 146 of the 206 recommendations received. These commitments focus on priority areas such as gender equality, protection of children and vulnerable groups, improved access to justice, and stronger democratic oversight.

To safeguard these rights, the Minister pointed to the roles of various national bodies, including the Guyana Elections Commission, the judiciary, the Audit Office, the Ombudsman, and the Rights Commissions. He stressed that protecting these rights requires sustained national effort and investment in education, accountability, and equal opportunity.