The Guyana-Venezuela Border Dispute: A Century-Old Conflict

The ongoing border dispute between Guyana and Venezuela is a long-standing and complex issue rooted in colonial history and exacerbated by recent discoveries of vast oil reserves in the disputed territory. At the heart of the matter is the Essequibo region, a 159,500 square kilometer area west of the Essequibo River, which constitutes roughly two-thirds of Guyana’s current territory. Venezuela claims this region as its own, asserting that the 1899 arbitral award that established the border is invalid.

The genesis of the dispute lies in conflicting interpretations of historical boundaries and agreements during the colonial era. Venezuela contends that the 1899 arbitral tribunal, convened in Paris, was biased and that the United Kingdom, then the colonial power in Guyana, unfairly influenced the decision in its favor. Guyana, on the other hand, maintains that the 1899 award is legally binding and that the border has been internationally recognized for over a century. They point to decades of peaceful co-existence following the arbitration and the subsequent adherence to the established boundary.

For many years, the dispute remained relatively dormant, although Venezuela consistently reiterated its claim. However, the discovery of significant oil reserves off the coast of the Essequibo region in 2015 has dramatically escalated tensions. These oil discoveries have transformed Guyana’s economic prospects, making it one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. Venezuela views these activities as a direct infringement on its sovereign rights and has become increasingly assertive in its claims to the territory.

Venezuela’s claims have taken various forms, including issuing decrees claiming maritime territory adjacent to the Essequibo region, conducting military exercises near the border, and questioning the legitimacy of Guyana’s government. This has understandably caused significant anxiety in Guyana, which views these actions as a threat to its territorial integrity and sovereignty.

Currently, the dispute is before the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Guyana initiated proceedings in 2018, seeking a definitive ruling affirming the validity of the 1899 arbitral award. Venezuela initially challenged the ICJ’s jurisdiction but the court has ruled that it does have the authority to hear the case. While Venezuela is not formally participating in the proceedings, it has submitted documents to the court outlining its position. The ICJ’s final ruling, which is expected in the coming years, will be legally binding on both parties. However, whether Venezuela will abide by the ruling remains to be seen, given its past defiance of international agreements and norms. The ongoing dispute represents a serious challenge to regional stability and underscores the importance of peaceful resolution of international conflicts through legal mechanisms.