GEORGETOWN, Guyana (CMC) — The Government of Guyana has renewed its call for an immediate increase in humanitarian aid to Gaza and the lifting of Israel’s blockade, warning that armed conflicts are having a disproportionate and devastating impact on women and girls.

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, the country’s 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 suffer the most in times 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 the 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 long standing support for Palestinian self-determination, emphasising the country’s commitment to a two-state solution and its consistent backing of United Nations resolutions advocating 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 Guyana’s domestic policies, Persaud underscored the importance of access to justice, particularly for women affected by violence. She highlighted recent national reforms, including strengthened family violence and sexual offences legislation, the establishment of specialised courts, digital reporting systems, and the creation of hope and justice centres offering comprehensive support services.

She stressed that empowering women, especially through economic independence, is critical to both conflict and post-conflict recovery.