Venezuela: Protests to be held February 20 and 23 /update 7

Event

Transporters in Caracas are expected to stage a protest on Wednesday, February 20, in front of the Ministry of Transportation in support of opposition leader and self-proclaimed interim president Juan Guaidó. Protesters are expected to gather at 10:00 (local time).

Furthermore, Guaidó has called for new opposition-led anti-government protests on Saturday, February 23, aimed at ousting President Nicolás Maduro's government, and to demand the delivery of humanitarian aid. Thousands of people are expected to hold rallies in urban centers, notably in the capital Caracas. 

Additional opposition-led protests are to be expected in Caracas and elsewhere across Venezuela over the coming days and weeks as the political crisis continues. A heightened security presence and transportation disruptions are to be expected near demonstration sites. Associated clashes between security forces and opposition protesters are likely.

On a related note, Venezuelan authorities reportedly closed maritime borders with the countries of Aruba, Curaçao, and Bonaire, on Tuesday, February 19. Reports indicate air and maritime travel from the aforementioned countries were disrupted by the order. As such, border crossings are not guaranteed amid a heightened security presence at points of entry in Venezuela.

Context

Venezuelan officials indicate the border closure was implemented to prevent deliveries of humanitarian aid, as many have speculated aid shipments were expected to be transferred from Curaçao in the coming days.

The current crisis was spurred by Maduro's inauguration to a second term as president on January 10 following last year's contested election, prompting the National Assembly to declare a national emergency. At least 50 foreign governments, including the US, Canada, and Brazil, among others, have since recognized opposition leader Juan Guaidó as the interim head of state. Guaidó indicated that opposition leadership is in contact with military officials to discuss forcing Maduro out, although he has declined to provide additional details.

Advice

Individuals in Venezuela are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all public demonstrations due to the risk of violence and arrest, refrain from discussing political topics in public, and adhere to all instructions issued by their home governments.