Guyana pushes for more international help to modernise policing

Guyana’s Home Affairs Minister, Oneidge Walrond on Wednesday called on the United Nations (UN) and its international partners to boost support for technology transfer, funding and training to help small and developing states keep pace with rapidly advancing policing technology.

Walrond made the appeal while addressing the fifth UN Chiefs of Police Summit (UNCOPS) in New York, during a session focused on innovation and new technologies in UN policing. The two days summit provides member states a platform to voice concerns and find resolves.

Walrond told delegates that Guyana’s Police Force Strategic Plan 2026-2030 has prioritised digital transformation, data-driven policing, enhanced intelligence capabilities and modernised law enforcement infrastructure.

She also said there are efforts to expand electronic crime reporting systems, digital forensic tools, improved criminal intelligence management and strengthened cybersecurity. Despite these advancements, Walrond said many developing countries continue to face real constraints. She listed limited access to emerging technologies, cybersecurity vulnerabilities, and a shortage of specialised training.

“Guyana therefore recommends increased international support for technology transfer, sustainable funding mechanisms, specialised training and the development of common standards and safeguards for the responsible use of artificial intelligence in policing,” Walrond said.

She urged the UN Police Division and its partners to expand knowledge-sharing and technical assistance, particularly for Small Island developing states, saying collective action is key to building a more resilient and more effective policing institution for the future.

Walrond said Guyana supports the development of common international standards and safeguards for the responsible use of AI in policing, alongside sustainable funding mechanisms and technology transfer support.

“Guyana also values regional and international partnerships in advancing innovation.

“We continue to strengthen information-sharing mechanisms, capacity-building programs, and technological capabilities to combat transnational organised crime, cybercrime, trafficking in persons, and other evolving security threats,” the minister said.