Venezuela uses the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to contest the court’s authority over the Essequibo border dispute with Guyana. During a hearing in The Hague on May 6, 2026, Venezuela’s agent Samuel Moncada rejects the ICJ’s jurisdiction, describing Venezuela’s territorial claims as “irrenunciables” and presenting its position that its rights over the disputed area cannot be waived or surrendered. The dispute concerns an area of roughly 160,000 square kilometers.
Both outlets report that Venezuela’s challenge comes despite prior proceedings in which the World Court has indicated it has authority to hear the matter. They also note that the case is tied to the 1966 Geneva Agreement framework, under which the dispute is referred to the ICJ—via the UN Secretary-General—for adjudication.
The reports indicate that the hearing lasts several hours and that Moncada’s presentation includes symbolic elements, including a map pin showing the disputed territory. Overall, Venezuela continues to argue that the ICJ should not proceed, while the case remains before the court following the referral process under the Geneva Agreement.
