Dear Editor,
Is ExxonMobil Guyana increasingly becoming perceived not simply as ExxonMobil operating in Guyana, but as “ExxonMobil & Guyana”? This is a question that deserves serious public discussion, particularly given the company’s increasingly ubiquitous presence through its numerous sponsorships and partnerships with the Government of Guyana, communities, businesses, educational institutions, sporting organizations, cultural groups and other Guyanese entities.
There is nothing inherently wrong with a company supporting communities and national initiatives through sponsorships and partnerships.. In fact, such involvement can be beneficial. However, when one corporation’s name and presence become so ubiquitous across different sectors of society, it is reasonable to ask whether ExxonMobil has become so pervasive that the company is increasingly being associated with Guyana itself. The concern is not about any individual sponsorship or partnership, but rather the cumulative effect of so many relationships and the perception that appears to be developing around them.
This also raises another important question: Where are the other companies? Where are the other major corporations sponsoring national and community activities, forming partnerships with Guyanese organizations, supporting education and sports, and contributing to cultural and social initiatives? Guyana is experiencing unprecedented economic activity, yet the public should be seeing a much broader range of corporate participation. If ExxonMobil’s presence has become so ubiquitous, why aren’t other companies stepping forward to establish similarly meaningful relationships with Guyanese communities and institutions?
This is not a criticism of ExxonMobil for participating in Guyanese society. Rather, it is a call for greater balance and diversity. A country should not allow its social and community development to become so closely associated with one corporation, regardless of how important that corporation may be to its economy. Guyanese organizations and institutions should have opportunities to develop relationships with a broad range of companies, ensuring that no single corporate entity becomes the dominant source of sponsorships, partnerships or support.
The Government of Guyana also has a role to play in encouraging greater corporate diversity. While ExxonMobil should be free to establish legitimate sponsorships and partnerships, other companies should likewise be encouraged to participate more actively in Guyana’s development. A diversified corporate presence would create more opportunities for Guyanese organizations, businesses and communities while reducing the perception that one company has become intertwined with virtually every aspect of national life.
Ultimately, the issue is one of perception, balance and national identity. ExxonMobil can be an important corporate partner to Guyana without becoming synonymous with Guyana. Guyana is much bigger than any one company, and our communities, institutions and national development should reflect the contributions of many companies and stakeholders.
So perhaps the question we should be asking is not simply whether we are seeing ExxonMobil Guyana, but whether we are increasingly seeing “ExxonMobil & Guyana.” And if ExxonMobil’s presence has become ubiquitous, then we should also be asking: Where are the other companies?