A society that fails to protect its most vulnerable undermines the very foundation of sustainable development

Feb 25, 2026 Letters

Dear Editor,

As a public communications analyst and human rights advocate, I have witnessed firsthand the lasting damage that social neglect, exploitation, and weak protective systems have inflicted on many women and girls across Barbados and Guyana. These experiences compel me to speak candidly about emerging societal shifts that demand urgent national attention

Guyana is undergoing a rapid transformation in behavioral norms and social practices, influenced by increased migration, the expansion of illicit drug activity, human exploitation, and trafficking. While economic growth and global integration bring opportunity, they also expose vulnerabilities—particularly for women, girls, and other at-risk groups—when safeguards are not strengthened alongside development.

One troubling manifestation of these vulnerabilities is the rise in sex tourism. Globally, sex tourism is driven largely by visitors from developed nations who travel to regions with economic inequality and weak enforcement frameworks.

Historically, major hubs have included parts of Southeast Asia, Latin America, and Africa. The Caribbean has not been immune to this reality, and Guyana’s fast-growing economy and expanding tourism sector now risk becoming an additional target for sex travel if proactive measures are not taken.

It must be stated clearly: development and tourism are not inherently harmful, nor should Guyana close itself off from progress. However, economic advancement cannot come at the cost of human dignity or public safety. A society that fails to protect its most vulnerable undermines the very foundation of sustainable development.

Our citizens—especially women and girls—must feel safe in their homes, communities, workplaces, and public spaces.

This requires stronger policy enforcement, inter-agency collaboration, public education, victim-centered support systems, and a zero-tolerance stance on exploitation in all its forms. Tourism growth must be guided by ethical standards that prioritize community wellbeing over unchecked profit.

Guyana stands at a critical crossroads. The choices made now will determine whether development uplifts the population as a whole or deepens existing social harms. Progress must be inclusive, protective, and grounded in respect for human rights. Anything less places our society at risk.

Sincerely:

Mr. Blane R Bunbury

Public Communications Analyst

& community advocate

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Blane R. Bunbury, public communications analyst, Southeast Asia

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