Guyana appeals to the International Court of Justice after Venezuela plans elections in the disputed Essequibo region, which has been administered by Guyana for over a century. Venezuela’s actions follow a referendum that showed support for its territorial claim. Guyana seeks provisional measures to prevent Venezuela from taking further steps in the region.
On Thursday, Guyana sought intervention from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) following Venezuela’s announcement of plans to conduct elections in the contested oil-rich Essequibo region. Venezuela is set to vote on May 25 to elect governors for its states, which includes Essequibo, an area under Guyana’s administration for over a century. This decision follows a December 2023 non-binding referendum where 95 percent of respondents endorsed Venezuela’s territorial claim.
In March 2022, Venezuela’s parliament adopted a law declaring Essequibo as its 24th state. This action was promptly denounced by Guyana and numerous other nations, yet was signed into law by President Nicolás Maduro. In response to Venezuela’s intentions, Guyana has filed a formal request with the ICJ for provisional measures, demanding that Venezuela be ordered to refrain from taking any action in the disputed territory, which constitutes two-thirds of Guyana’s land area and houses a significant portion of its population.
Guyana, a former British and Dutch colony, maintains that the borders of Essequibo were established by an arbitration panel in 1899. In contrast, Venezuela asserts that the Essequibo River serves as an established natural divider recognized as early as 1777. The territorial dispute escalated after ExxonMobil’s discovery of substantial crude oil reserves in Essequibo in 2015, reaching a critical point in 2023 with Guyana beginning to auction oil exploration blocks in the area.
In December 2023, the ICJ had previously granted Guyana’s request for provisional measures, instructing Venezuela to avoid any activities affecting the territory. Guyana asserted that Venezuela’s election plans violate this ruling and has urged the ICJ to expedite a hearing on the matter. Additionally, the United States expressed concerns over Venezuelan naval vessels allegedly threatening an ExxonMobil operation within maritime boundaries claimed by Guyana.
In conclusion, the ongoing territorial dispute between Guyana and Venezuela has intensified with Venezuela’s decision to hold elections in the disputed Essequibo region. Guyana’s petition to the International Court of Justice reflects its determination to protect its sovereignty and adhere to international rulings. As both nations navigate the complexities of this geopolitical conflict, the international community’s response will be crucial in addressing the ongoing tensions and ensuring stability in the region.
Original Source: www.gonzagabulletin.com
