Tensions between Guyana and Venezuela have escalated following an alleged attack on Guyanese soldiers near the Cuyuni River. Guyana claims its troops were ambushed by armed men, possibly linked to criminal groups, while Venezuela dismisses the incident as fabricated. This latest development comes at a time when Guyana’s press faces mounting pressure and restrictions, potentially limiting their ability to report freely on the crisis. CIVICUS discusses these interconnected challenges with a journalist who has asked to remain anonymous for security reasons.

What’s driving tensions between Guyana and Venezuela?

Tensions have recently flared up following a violent incident near the border community of Eteringbang. Guyana’s Defence Force soldiers were ambushed by armed men in boats, likely linked to the Sindicato Venezuelan gang, known for operating in unpatrolled areas and extorting locals. Several soldiers were injured and required airlift evacuation. While Guyana condemned the attack and summoned the Venezuelan ambassador, Venezuela dismissed the incident as fabricated, a claim that seems hard to believe given the documented injuries.

This incident adds to a long-standing border dispute where Venezuela claims over two-thirds of Guyana’s territory, despite the matter being settled by the 1899 Tribunal Award. The discovery of oil in Guyana in 2015 only intensified tensions, with the Venezuelan government stepping up its territorial claims and spreading disinformation. The situation is particularly concerning for Indigenous communities living along the border, particularly following Venezuela’s 2023 referendum, which reignited tensions.

How free are media outlets to cover this crisis?

In Guyana, media outlets have generally maintained unity in their coverage of the border dispute, ensuring the public understands the country’s position. However, this reporting takes place against a backdrop of deteriorating press freedom. Guyana’s position on the Reporters Without Borders Press Freedom Index has declined significantly, and while journalists rarely face physical attacks, they encounter substantial cyberbullying and efforts to discredit their work.

The government employs various methods of control, including offering public relations positions to journalists and selectively using state advertisement funds to financially support only media houses and social media commentators aligned to its positions. The administration’s approach to media engagement is particularly concerning: the president typically avoids open press interactions, preferring controlled interviews, while the vice president uses lengthy weekly broadcasts to criticise dissenting voices.

What recent pressures have journalists faced?

The situation took a concerning turn in 2022 when the government attempted to take over the Guyana Press Association, questioning its legitimacy and excluding it from official events.

Journalists also now face more direct threats. In one case, an investigative reporter’s car was shot at, while a female journalist was forced to take leave after becoming the target of false personal allegations. These tactics have created an environment of self-censorship, where journalists often avoid critical reporting to protect themselves from harassment.

How has civil society responded?

Civil society in Guyana is split on the issue, partly due to recent economic changes. Access to resources has a strong influence on how people view governance issues.

While some organisations continue advocating for press freedom and free expression and some, particularly women’s groups, strongly denounce cyberbullying and intimidation of journalists, others – often those with government connections – tend to minimise these concerns. The government has ensured many people have access to resources, even through questionable means, and this has affected how they approach issues such as human rights and press freedom.

What international support do journalists need?

International attention has proven effective in pressuring the government to address these issues. Even when it doesn’t lead to immediate policy changes, global scrutiny can help deter further targeting of journalists and media organisations. The Guyana Press Association continues to champion journalists’ safety and working conditions, but additional support from international and regional partners remains crucial.

Funding from the US Agency for International Development (USAID), now under attack by the Trump administration, has played a significant role in supporting media safety and independent journalism worldwide and in Guyana. Its absence will be sorely felt. This international support becomes even more crucial as we navigate this sensitive period in Guyana-Venezuela relations, where transparent and accurate reporting is essential for public understanding of domestic and regional issues.