Minister Persaud warns youth of lasting harm from sharing intimate images, videos
Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, is calling on young people to pause and think carefully before sharing intimate photos or videos, cautioning that such actions can lead to deep emotional and psychological harm.
Speaking on the Starting Point podcast, Dr. Persaud said the Ministry continues to raise awareness about the dangers of sharing nude images and videos—especially among youth who may not fully consider the long-term consequences.
“We always talk about sharing nude photos in all programmes dealing with young people,” she explained. “People don’t think beyond the moment when they do those things. What could be the repercussions—the consequences—later on, when those things have the potential to be released?”
The Minister pointed out that intimate images shared in personal relationships can easily end up online, often after the relationship ends. “A relationship can be wonderful this week, and next week it is not,” she said. “The thing is, everything can go on the internet… and it doesn’t disappear.”
Dr. Persaud highlighted the severe impact that leaked private images can have on victims, noting that many experience depression, trauma, and social stigma. “We’ve seen a lot of young people become mentally unhinged because of those things,” she said.
While encouraging young people to take personal responsibility and think before acting, the Minister made it clear that those who share or circulate such material without consent will face consequences under the law.
“Not that I am saying to the person who releases it… you get a free pass. Absolutely not,” she stressed.
In closing, Dr. Persaud acknowledged that sharing intimate images is ultimately a personal choice, but urged individuals to weigh the possible consequences before do so.
In Guyana, the Cybercrime Act 2018 prohibits the distribution of intimate images without consent, commonly referred to as “revenge porn.”
Offenders can face fines of up to $10 million and imprisonment for five years. The Act also addresses related offences such as cyberbullying, online harassment, and unauthorised access to personal data.
Additionally, when such cases involve minors, they may also fall under the Sexual Offences Act, which provides further legal protection for individuals under 18.
