Despite ongoing border and security challenges, Guyana has accepted thousands of Venezuelan migrants in recent years, balancing compassion with strict safety controls—especially in vulnerable border communities.
This was affirmed by Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, who gave an update on securing the country’s borders and national security during the programme Safeguarding Our Nation, which was broadcast live today.
“In the execution of my duties and my visits to border communities, I have personally witnessed Venezuela migrants and the embarrassment, shame, the almost loss of dignity, of families, women, children, babies, fathers seeking refuge in a foreign land. Why are they fleeing? Guyana [is] receiving thousands of Venezuelan migrants. It tells about the political and socio-economic conditions in Venezuela. This is disheartening,” he said.
Brigadier Khan added that the country has adopted a multi-agency approach in tackling such matters, explaining that these humanitarian efforts are nothing new.
“But while Guyana is approaching this with compassion, we are committed to safe borders in the protection of our borders. And that is why we have implemented strong security measures on vetting, processing, documenting all Venezuelan migrants,” Brigadier Khan noted.
He further stated that organisations and agencies such as the Guyana Police Force, Ministry of Health, as well as local government and regional authorities are also on board to facilitate the interception of Venezuelan migrants.
On the defence side, Brigadier Khan said this humanitarian gesture is not uncommon or unprecedented, as the GDF has long been involved in humanitarian and disaster relief operations as part of its mandate.
“Just last year, in an extra-regional way we supported Grenada and post hurricane Beryl in reconstructing houses and rebuilding lives, and we are currently in St. Vincent doing the same thing,” he highlighted.
The Chief of Staff said the GDF has contributed to and participated in over 200 rebuilding projects, including police stations and family homes. He noted that the humanitarian side of the army forms part of its broader efforts to contribute to national development during times of natural disasters.
