In recognition of International Day of Democracy (IDD), key Western missions here have pledged support to ensure that all Guyanese have a voice and role to play in the country’s future.
A joint statement from US Ambassador Sarah-Ann Lynch, British High Commissioner Jane Miller, Canadian High Com-missioner Mark Berman and European Union Ambassador René van Nes said “…we resolve to support the people of Guyana to continue building a democratic system that is strong, resilient, and guarantees all Guyanese have a voice and role to play as the country moves forward at this unique time in its history.”
Commemorating the 15th IDD anniversary, the four envoys said: “As we celebrate this anniversary today, we reaffirm the cornerstones of democracy, including liberty, equality, inclusivity, freedom of religion and belief, speech and assembly, the rule of law, and the right to vote. While free, fair and inclusive elections are critical, democracies also help safeguard human rights and fundamental freedoms and work to strengthen political, economic, and social rights. And they do so openly, to the benefit of all. When these principles are placed at the center of foreign policy frameworks, they connect us as global citizens and help nations achieve and sustain peace and stability around the world”.
The envoys added that democracy is not without its challenges and necessitates continuous reflection and improvement.
“We acknowledge that democracy as a form of government is not without its challenges and requires continuous reflection and improvement. To tackle the critical issues facing the world today, democracies need to be constantly vigilant in strengthening their institutions and processes, actively engaging civil society, supporting press freedom, ensuring equity and fairness, respect for diversity, and holding to account those who commit abuses and foster corrupt practices”, they said.
They said that these cherished democratic values are fragile and not all global citizens enjoy the rights that stem from these values. They said that this is a stark reminder that there is still work to be done to uphold democratic principles and renew the spirit of democracy across the globe.
