Guyana’s election to UNSC testament to its distinguished record – Caricom

…says country positioned itself as a voice for developing states

Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (Caricom) have extended congratulations to Guyana on its election by an overwhelming majority, to a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
In a statement, Caricom shared this is a “testament to Guyana’s distinguished record of service in the United Nations and assumes heightened significance against the background of the challenges to current global peace and security for which the Council has responsibility”.
It noted that as a Member State of Caricom, which strategically designated security cooperation as one of its four pillars, Guyana is positioned to offer unique perspectives to UN Security Council matters as a voice for Small Island and low-lying coastal developing states (SIDS).
Last week, Guyana became one of five new non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council for the term 2024-2025. Guyana’s candidacy was uncontested, being the sole candidate for a single seat available to the Latin America and Caribbean Region, where it garnered the highest vote count at 191 out of 192. The other non-permanent seats will be held by Algeria, the Republic of Korea, Sierra Leone, and Slovenia.
President Dr Irfaan Ali had expressed that Guyana is honoured and humbled by the confidence that has been expressed by the international community in electing it to this most important position of responsibility on the global stage.
“It is a responsibility that we will assume with utmost seriousness and dedication, mindful of the complex and challenging times in which we live…We intend to be a constructive and engaged partner with the members of the Council and the wider international community in the search for solutions to the myriad of momentous challenges that beset our human family,” Ali had said.
The Head of State continued that the theme of their candidacy: “Partnering for Peace and Prosperity” serves as a guide to Guyana’s approach to service on the Security Council.
In some cases, the Security Council can resort to imposing sanctions or even authorise the use of force to maintain or restore international peace and security.
Temporary members hold their seats on a rotating basis by geographic region. Guyana will serve a two-year term on the Council from January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2025.
Areas that would be given special focus during Guyana’s tenure were touted as climate change, food insecurity and conflict; peacebuilding and conflict prevention; women, peace and security; protection of children in armed conflict; and youth, peace and security.
Meanwhile, Caricom also noted the election of Dennis Francis of Trinidad and Tobago to the Presidency of the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
“President-elect Francis will undoubtedly bring to bear his trademark professionalism, negotiating skills and wide-ranging experience on his new role. We are confident that our Region will be represented with integrity, distinction and honour under their tenures and extend our best wishes for impactful and successful terms of office,” the regional bloc penned. (G-12)