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The Government of Guyana has renewed its call for an immediate increase in humanitarian assistance to Gaza and for the lifting of Israel’s blockade, warning that armed conflict continues to have a disproportionate and devastating impact on women and girls.
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Speaking at the second meeting of the Group of Parliaments in Support of Palestine during the 152nd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Turkey on Wednesday, Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr. Vindhya Persaud said the crisis in Gaza reflects a troubling global pattern in which women and girls bear the brunt of war.
She noted that as conflicts intensify worldwide, women and girls are increasingly subjected to violence, exploitation, and severe hardship, often facing the worst conditions of displacement and deprivation.
Persaud described the situation in Gaza as one of the most severe humanitarian crises in recent history, pointing to widespread destruction and the breakdown of essential services since October 7, 2023. She said the weaponisation of aid and the scale of human suffering represent a profound failure of the international community.
She also reiterated Guyana’s longstanding support for Palestinian self-determination, emphasizing the country’s commitment to a two-state solution and its continued backing of United Nations resolutions calling for peace and justice. Guyana formally recognised the State of Palestine in 2011 and continues to support its bid for statehood on the global stage.
Drawing parallels with domestic reforms, Persaud highlighted Guyana’s efforts to strengthen access to justice for women affected by violence, including updated family violence and sexual offences legislation, specialised courts, digital reporting systems, and the creation of “hope and justice” centres offering support services.
She stressed that empowering women — particularly through economic independence — is essential both during conflict and in post-conflict recovery efforts.
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