Guyana has ramped up its response to the ongoing influx of Venezuelan migrants with a coordinated, multi-agency strategy that balances humanitarian compassion with robust border security.
Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Omar Khan recently addressed the nation, highlighting the scale and complexity of the migration crisis. He described firsthand encounters with Venezuelan families—women, children, and fathers—seeking refuge in Guyana, often arriving in distress and facing the loss of dignity as they flee political and economic turmoil in their homeland.
Thousands of Venezuelans have crossed into Guyana in recent years, driven by the deepening crisis in Venezuela. While Guyana’s numbers are significant, Brigadier Khan noted that neighboring countries such as Colombia and Brazil have received migrants in the millions, underscoring the regional scope of the humanitarian emergency.
To manage the situation, Guyana has established a multi-pronged response involving the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Ministry of Health, local police, regional authorities, and other government agencies. This approach ensures that all Venezuelan migrants intercepted at the borders are properly screened, vetted, and documented. The process is designed to safeguard national security while upholding Guyana’s tradition of humanitarian support1234.
The GDF has played a central role, not only in border security but also in humanitarian and disaster relief operations. Brigadier Khan emphasized that the army has participated in over 200 humanitarian projects, providing vital support to vulnerable populations both within Guyana and across the region.
Guyana’s policy allows for the regularization of Venezuelan migrants on humanitarian grounds, offering renewable extensions of stay and facilitating access to services. However, logistical challenges remain, particularly for those in remote areas who must frequently renew their status5.
As Guyana continues to address the influx, authorities reaffirm their commitment to balancing compassion for migrants with the protection of the nation’s borders, ensuring a responsible and humane response to one of the region’s most pressing challenges.
