Venezuela and Guyana have long disputed ownership of a region rich in oil and natural resources in Guyana. This territorial dispute has recently been exacerbated by the discovery of vast offshore energy deposits. In a symbolic gesture, Venezuelans voted overwhelmingly in favor of taking control of this region in a referendum held on Sunday. However, this vote is unlikely to have any practical consequences, given the legal and political obstacles in place.
The disputed region, known as Essequibo, makes up about two-thirds of Guyana’s national territory and is comparable in size to Florida. Venezuela claims this region based on historical arguments dating back to the Spanish colonial period. It also challenges the 1899 decision by international arbitrators that established the current borders when Guyana was still a British colony.
The referendum held on Sunday asked voters about the creation of a Venezuelan state in the Essequibo region. Preliminary results announced by the Venezuelan National Electoral Council show that more than 95% of voters answered “yes” to each of the five questions asked.
However, the Venezuelan government is unlikely to take concrete steps to enforce its territorial claim, given the international resistance that would accompany it. The International Court of Justice, based in The Hague, has already ruled that Venezuela must refrain from any action aimed at changing the situation in the disputed region. A trial on this issue is scheduled for the spring, but Venezuela does not recognize the Court’s jurisdiction over the matter.
Despite this, the climate of tension between the two countries has led to troop movements in the region, raising concerns among residents. Guyanese leaders have even compared this situation to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
It is important to note that this referendum, although it may offer some political legitimacy to Nicolas Maduro as part of his re-election campaign, is often seen as a strategy aimed at diverting attention from the economic and political crisis that crosses the country. By standing up against alleged foreign interference, Maduro hopes to rally support from the Venezuelan people.
In conclusion, although the referendum on the takeover of the Essequibo region was widely supported by Venezuelans, it is unlikely to have any practical implications for the territorial dispute between Venezuela and Guyana. The resolution of this conflict remains in the hands of international courts and diplomatic negotiations, and a peaceful settlement is desired to avoid any escalation of violence in the region.