– against Trafficking in Persons – Min. Walrond
-by Kimberly Giddings
Guyana continues to maintain a strong global ranking in relation to trafficking in persons, according to Minister of Home Affairs, Oneidge Walrond.
Speaking during a recent interview on GoMosely Radio, Minister Walrond said the country’s Trafficking in Persons programme remains exemplary in its approach to addressing the issue.
She noted that the dedicated unit remains highly proactive, explaining that once there is any indication or suspicion that a person—particularly a migrant—may be in Guyana against their will, investigations are launched swiftly and thoroughly.
“We work very closely with the ministry of human services in this regard, we have support systems in relation to trafficking in person, we have a very competent director there,” she said.
The minister also noted that the unit works closely with the police, conducting raids and operations whenever they receive tips or intelligence related to trafficking in persons.
“Hence, our rankings worldwide in relations to trafficking in person continues to be very robust and I never say that there is nothing else left to do, there’s always work to do, there’s always ways to improve and to make the system robust but we are doing a really good job in relation to that,” Minister Walrond explained.
According to the U.S. Trafficking in Persons Report for 2025, the Government of Guyana continues to meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking in persons and has maintained its Tier One ranking.
During the reporting period, authorities demonstrated sustained efforts to combat the issue, including securing a conviction against a sex trafficker, who was also ordered to pay restitution, and increasing the number of prosecutions.
The government also strengthened collaboration with foreign partners to investigate trafficking cases, identified more victims, and significantly boosted funding for protection and prevention programmes.
Additionally, extensive public awareness campaigns and training initiatives were carried out as part of a broader effort to combat trafficking in persons.