The Government of Guyana has renewed its call for increased humanitarian assistance to Gaza and an immediate end to Israel’s blockade, warning that armed conflicts continue to disproportionately impact women and girls.
Speaking at the second meeting of the Group of Parliaments in Support of Palestine during the 152nd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) on Wednesday, Minister of Human Services and Social Security Vindhya Persaudhighlighted what she described as a growing global pattern of gendered vulnerability in times of war.
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Persaud noted that as conflicts intensify worldwide, women and girls are increasingly exposed to violence, exploitation, and extreme hardship, often bearing the brunt of displacement and limited access to basic services.
She described the situation in Gaza as one of the most severe humanitarian crises in recent history, pointing to widespread destruction and the collapse of essential infrastructure since October 7, 2023. According to Persaud, the scale of suffering and the reported weaponisation of aid signal a broader failure of the international community to respond effectively.
Reaffirming Guyana’s longstanding foreign policy stance, Persaud reiterated support for Palestinian self-determination and a two-state solution. She noted that Guyana formally recognized the State of Palestine in 2011 and continues to advocate for its full statehood through international platforms, including the United Nations.
Drawing connections to domestic policy, Persaud underscored Guyana’s efforts to strengthen access to justice for women, particularly survivors of violence. She outlined reforms such as enhanced legislation on family violence and sexual offences, the establishment of specialized courts, digital reporting mechanisms, and the development of “Hope and Justice” centres providing integrated support services.
She emphasized that empowering women, especially through economic independence, is essential not only for recovery in conflict zones but also for long-term resilience in post-conflict societies.
Guyana’s intervention at the IPU forum reflects its broader diplomatic engagement on humanitarian issues and gender equity, as well as its continued advocacy for peaceful resolution and justice in global conflicts.
