Guyana: ERC Reports 151 Social Media Violations Related to Racial Slurs

The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) has reported issuing 151 cautionary statements to social media users in 2026, as part of its ongoing monitoring of online content for instances of racial hostility, intolerance, and divisive commentary. In its public update from May 2026, the ERC highlighted the activities of its Media Monitoring Unit, which has been active across both traditional and social media platforms, identifying statements that may incite racial hostility or social division.

According to the ERC, the most frequently recorded infractions this year have been stand-alone racial and ethnic slurs, which accounted for 41 incidents. Additionally, intolerant, prejudicial, and insensitive statements collectively made up 35 infractions. From April 24 to May 22, the ERC documented eight racial slurs, eight racially insensitive or prejudicial statements, five xenophobic statements, one racially stereotypical statement, two racially divisive statements, and three racially derogatory comments.

The Commission has urged citizens to engage responsibly and respectfully on social media and other public platforms. This warning aligns with the ERC’s broader program of national outreach, public education, monitoring, and investigation, particularly in connection with Guyana’s 60th Independence Anniversary and the goal of enhancing social cohesion.

Through its Public Education and Awareness Unit, the ERC has intensified its engagement with youth and the general public via national competitions, cultural activities, social media campaigns, and partnerships with stakeholders. A significant event was the ERC’s Awards Ceremony for its National Poetry, Song, and Social Media Competitions, held on May 23 at the Seawall Bandstand, themed “Celebrating 60 Years of Heritage, Reflection and Respect.” This initiative provided students and young Guyanese a platform to express their views on patriotism, unity, diversity, and national identity through various forms of artistic expression.

Additionally, the ERC participated in the Guyana Festival Expo 2026 at the Guyana National Stadium, where staff engaged with hundreds of attendees, distributed informational materials, and raised awareness about the Commission’s constitutional mandate. Short films promoting unity, tolerance, diversity, and mutual respect were also showcased during the festival.

Furthermore, the ERC facilitated Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion training for the management team of Excel Guyana Inc., focusing on inclusive workplace practices, respectful engagement, unconscious bias, and the ERC’s role in fostering harmony among Guyanese. On the investigative front, the ERC reported a consolidated caseload of 83 matters from 2022 to 2026, with various statuses including pending reviews, investigations, and legal advice. The ERC noted that 33 matters have reached finalized outcomes, including closed and completed cases.

This May update illustrates the ERC’s dual focus on promoting unity through outreach and education while addressing online and public conduct that may undermine social cohesion.

Source: hgptv.com