By Sharda Bacchus
Shardabacchus@newsroom.gy
As of mid-2024, there have been 174 reported cases of sexual and gender-based violence against women in Guyana, many of whom are Venezuelan migrants who came to the region seeking refuge.
This alarming figure was revealed by a representative from the non-governmental organisation Blossom Inc. during a presentation at the 191st session of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights. The hearing focused on the impact of gender violence on migrants, sex workers, and transgender women.
Blossom Inc.’s statistics show that between 2020 and mid-2024, a total of 307 cases were reported among Venezuelan migrants, reflecting a significant and troubling increase in incidents of violence.
To address this, the representative informed the forum that Blossom Inc. has been providing vital support to this vulnerable population. The services offered include trauma counselling, forensic interviews, psychosocial support, and legal assistance.
“The escalation in violence is particularly pronounced in Region 7, where 174 cases have been reported. This region, heavily associated with mining activities, has become a hotspot for exploitation and trafficking due to its transient population and limited law enforcement presence,” the representative explained.
She further highlighted that undocumented migrant women, often without legal status, are hesitant to seek help from authorities, fearing deportation. This leaves them trapped in a dangerous cycle of abuse.
“Several socio-economic factors contribute to the heightened risks of violence against migrant women and girls. Among the most significant are economic exploitation, trafficking, lack of legal protections, cultural and language barriers—and, of course, weak border controls and law enforcement gaps due to the porous borders between Guyana and Venezuela,” the representative said.
Despite the organisation’s efforts, she noted that challenges persist, particularly in extending services to remote regions where many victims are located.
“The rising incidence of violence against migrant women in Guyana, particularly in Regions 1, 2, and 7, calls for urgent and coordinated intervention,” she stressed.
She also called for enhanced law enforcement presence and the expansion of support services to better assist these vulnerable groups.
Acknowledging the challenges faced by these communities, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira, addressed the forum, emphasising that the government has been working “tirelessly” to ensure equal protection, support, and access to justice for all.
Importantly, she noted that the legislative framework and range of services provided are not limited to any specific groups but apply equally to both nationals and non-nationals.
“This inclusive approach underscores the state’s unwavering commitment to upholding the rights and dignity of all women, regardless of their identity, nationality, or background,” Teixeira stated.
Teixeira went on to highlight that in recent years, the state has taken significant steps to address domestic violence, support vulnerable communities, reduce stigma and discrimination, and combat human trafficking.
Although these efforts have been ongoing for decades, she pointed out that in the past five years, the government, through its various arms, has implemented a series of legislative policies and institutional reforms aimed at strengthening the fight against gender-based violence.
Among these efforts are the passage of the new Family Violence Act, ongoing revisions to the Sexual Offences Act, strengthened inter-agency collaboration, the creation of special programmes for Venezuelan migrants, and an expansion of sensitisation campaigns, particularly in remote areas.
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