Perspectives- Refugees to Guyana in an era of unprecedented socio-economic change
Lear Matthews
By Lear Matthews
Some concerns may be emerging in Guyana as a result of the stream of refugees from Venezuela and the related uptick in the “Squatting situation”. This is compounded by the entry of immigrants from other countries, many under government contract or Unclassified Entrants. In light of anticipated changes that will emerge in the dawning of the gas and oil industry, issues of adjustment, accommodation and populations shifts caused by these new entrants must be seriously considered.
There have been grumblings among Guyanese about the increasing number of immigrant families “admitted” into the country, whom locals uncannily refer to as “the silent invaders”. A report by the Chairperson of Region One confirmed that about 40,000 Venezuelans were in the country in 2019. As a result of these entries, immigrant settlements have been established along border communities such as Mabaruma and Kumaka, notwithstanding the noticeable increase of various transnational groups throughout the nation. Continue reading
