Peaceful protest is not an act of defiance against the state; it is an appeal to it

Feb 06, 2026 Letters

Dear Editor,

As a public communications analyst, I have long taken the position of stepping back and allowing citizens the space to freely express themselves, exercising their fundamental human right to speak up for their beliefs, concerns, and convictions. A healthy democracy depends on this freedom, particularly when people feel unheard through traditional channels.

Freedom of protest is a fundamental human right protected under international law, including Article 20 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which affirms the right to peaceful assembly and association. This right is not conditional on political alignment, popularity of opinion, or convenience to those in authority; it exists to safeguard the voice of the people. In recent times, I have observed a growing number of citizens taking to the streets to protest a wide range of issues affecting their daily lives

These individuals often stand together as a community—peacefully, visibly, and with shared purpose—seeking attention for concerns they believe have not been adequately addressed through other means. Their presence should not be automatically viewed as disorder, but rather as a clear signal of civic engagement.

Peaceful protest is not an act of defiance against the state; it is an appeal to it. It reflects a desire for accountability, dialogue, and inclusion in decision-making processes that directly impact livelihoods, rights, and national well-being. When managed respectfully, protests can serve as an important pressure valve in society, helping to prevent deeper frustration and unrest.

It is therefore essential that authorities uphold their responsibility to protect the right to peaceful protest while ensuring public safety. Any response to demonstrations must be proportionate, lawful, and rooted in respect for human dignity. Suppressing or dismissing public expression only risks deepening mistrust between citizens and institutions.

Across Guyana, nearly all major regions have witnessed public protests in recent years, reflecting widespread frustration across communities. Situations tend to escalate when citizens perceive that no one is being held accountable for decisions, misconduct, or unmet promises

In extreme cases, such as in 2025, the country experienced intense demonstrations led largely by frustrated youths, driven by unemployment, rising living costs, and a growing sense of exclusion from meaningful participation in national decision-making. When accountability mechanisms fail or appear ineffective, protest movements risk shifting from peaceful expression to volatile confrontation—an outcome that serves neither the public nor the state.

As a society, we must remember that the freedom to protest today safeguards the freedom to be heard tomorrow. Protecting this right is not a favor granted by those in power; it is a duty owed to every citizen in a democratic state

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