Drishya Singh
Drowned by the growing hyperinflation, the decreasing demand and sinking prices of oil, and the unfathomable concept of common ground, the Venezuelan economy now is near to becoming a relic and sinking deeper into the ocean of instability and futility. With wages that do not correspond with the rising prices, the citizens are left clutching the Bolivar that allows them to afford little to no viands. The economy that once soared globally, bracketed by its enormous oil tanks, now fuels more annual emigrants than a reliable government revenue. Concord, an idea that had taken a step back since the presidential inauguration of Hugo Chavez in 1999, still seems to be prompting heavily dominated biases and negligence of apprehension. This eclectic set of issues has directed the Venezuelan economy to face a crisis: one that embraces poverty, violation, and mass migration.
Initially, the country used to face protests caused by distinct political opinions. Now, they have exacerbated due to a severe deficit of basic necessities and the crippling fear of insecurity. The scarcity of resources and viable infrastructure has caused a series of medical outbreaks with constricted health services. Additionally, approximately 22.9% have faced critical undernourishment and millions of others have encountered widespread shortages of food.
While different organizations and actors conclude varying opinions on the human rights situation within the economy, many summarize the commonality of politically motivated arrests and arbitrary detentions. Allegations against the government related to extrajudicial killings, restrictions on peaceful protests, imitation of journalists and human rights defenders, and suppressed rights for information have led to rising concern by international forces. With the political, economic, and social grimness in the country, millions of Venezuelans have chosen to flee, seeking a better life elsewhere. Consequently, the inclining trend of emigrants and refugees has had a significant burden on host countries in South America.
Even with aid from the United Nations and other international organizations, the country’s crisis that stems from a complex political situation makes the aid distribution less effective. While numerous attempts to maintain political and economic stability in Venezuela have been made, little to no progress can be depicted.
Keeping in gaze the futility of the attempts and the escalation of the Venezuelan crisis, finding a peaceful and lasting solution seems like a crucial element towards urgent improvements. Until these improvements are made the international community should increase their humanitarian assistance to provide the essentials to the millions that remain deprived.