Overview of corruption and anti-corruption in Guyana, with reference to natural resource sectors

Abstract

Query We would like to learn more about the situation of corruption and anti-corruption in Guyana. With respect to corruption: What kind of corruption takes place in the country, which sectors are especially prone and who are the major actors? Our primary interest is in natural resource sectors, in particular forest and mining. With respect to anti-corruption: What are the major anti-corruption activities taking place now, what are the major programmes, who are the major actors? Finally, what are donors doing on anti-corruption in Guyana? Summary In Guyana, economic hardship, institutional weaknesses, criminal justice inefficiencies, as well as racial fractures in society provide fertile grounds for corruption. Although there is little data and research available on the country’s state of governance and on corruption, all major governance indicators suggest high and deteriorating levels of perceived corruption in the country and the prevalence of both bureaucratic and political forms of corruption. The scale of the informal and illegal economy is particularly notable, as it breeds criminal activities such as drug and human trafficking or illegal logging that are strongly associated with corruption and coercion. While a series of laws and institutions have been established to tackle corruption, they face major implementation challenges due to lack of capacity, resources and trained staff. There is also little evidence of strong political will to effectively tackle corruption. Major bilateral and multilateral donors are present in Guyana, working particularly in the field of democratic governance