Guyana is marking 60 years of membership in the United Nations, reaffirming its commitment to the international body, the UN Charter, international law and the principles of multilateralism, peace and collective action.

Guyana became a member of the United Nations on September 20, 1966, when the UN General Assembly, during its 21st session, admitted the newly independent nation by acclamation.

Reflecting on six decades of membership, the Government said the country’s engagement with the UN has been guided by a commitment to playing “an active rather than a sleeping” role in the organisation.

Over the years, Guyana has participated in UN efforts addressing peace and security, development, human rights, self-determination and the rule of international law. The country also played a role in the decolonisation of Namibia through its membership on the Council for Namibia.

Guyana has also championed issues including sovereign equality, self-determination, disarmament, nuclear non-proliferation and the interests of small and developing states.

The Government highlighted Guyana’s participation across several UN organs, noting that its representatives have served as President of the General Assembly, the Security Council, the Economic and Social Council, as well as on the International Court of Justice, the Human Rights Committee and the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women.

Guyana has also twice chaired the Group of 77 and China, the principal negotiating bloc representing developing countries within the UN system.

Climate change has emerged as another major area of Guyana’s international advocacy, with the country positioning itself as a strong voice on the existential threat posed by the climate crisis.

Marking the 60th anniversary, Guyana has also nominated former Foreign Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett for the position of UN Secretary-General. The Government said the nomination reflects the country’s enduring faith in the UN and its principles, as well as the opportunities available to all member states regardless of size.

The Government expressed appreciation for the UN’s support, including through the UN country team, in Guyana’s pursuit of peace, development and democracy.

Guyana reaffirmed its commitment to the United Nations, the UN Charter and international law, while continuing to stand as a committed partner in the global pursuit of peace and prosperity.

Guyana is marking its 60 years of membership in the United Nations, with a commemorative postal stamp commissioned by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with the UN Country Team in Georgetown.