The Government of Guyana is under increasing scrutiny for what Indigenous leaders and advocacy groups describe as insufficient action to protect and advance the rights of Indigenous peoples across the country. Despite official statements of commitment and the existence of legal frameworks, critics argue that meaningful progress remains elusive, especially regarding land rights, environmental protection, and genuine consultation.
At the recent United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues in New York, Mario Hastings, President of the Amerindian Peoples Association (APA), delivered a pointed critique of the government’s record. He highlighted persistent issues such as the lack of consultation and consent on the use of Indigenous lands, the reckless seizure of territories and resources, and environmental degradation linked to national development projects. Hastings emphasized that these actions run counter to the principles of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, to which Guyana is a signatory.
Central to the concerns is the handling of land rights and resource management. Indigenous communities have repeatedly called for revisions to the Amerindian Act of 2006, which they argue is too weak to provide adequate protection. Proposed changes include recognizing collective land ownership, strengthening the ability of district councils to hold land, and removing clauses that allow the government to override Indigenous communities’ decisions—especially in matters related to mining and large-scale development. As it stands, many Indigenous leaders feel that land titles are treated as privileges granted by the state, rather than fundamental rights.
The government’s approach to carbon credit deals has also drawn sharp criticism. Indigenous representatives allege that their right to Free, Prior, and Informed Consent was not respected in negotiations involving the sale of forest carbon credits. Many say they were excluded from meaningful participation and felt pressured to sign agreements in exchange for a share of the proceeds. While the government touts the distribution of funds to Indigenous villages as evidence of inclusion, many community members see it as an attempt to quell dissent rather than address underlying issues of autonomy and land recognition.
Furthermore, the environmental impact of mining and logging—often permitted on or near Indigenous lands—continues to threaten traditional livelihoods and the ecological integrity of ancestral territories. Communities like Isseneru have suffered from pollution and forest destruction, with little recourse or restitution.
While the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs maintains that Guyana is committed to legal recognition of Indigenous land ownership and points to existing legislation as evidence, Indigenous leaders and their allies insist that these measures are not enough. They call for genuine dialogue, stronger legal protections, and respect for Indigenous peoples’ right to self-determination and stewardship of their lands.
As international attention grows, the government faces mounting pressure to move beyond rhetoric and take concrete steps to ensure that the rights, voices, and aspirations of Guyana’s Indigenous peoples are fully respected and protected.
