Venezuela: Protests planned July 22-24; violence possible

Event

The United States Embassy in Caracas received reports noting multiple demonstrations planned from Saturday, July 22 until Monday, July 24, in the capital and other major cities. While specific logistics are yet to be confirmed, anti-government protests have become violent in recent weeks. Individuals should exercise caution and avoid any and all demonstrations.

In addition, a Chilean national was detained after coming across anti-government protests on Isla de Margarita (Nueva Esparta state) on Thursday, July 20. She was reportedly arrested by Venezuelan authorities after stopping to assist a demonstrator; unconfirmed accounts allege she was beaten while being taken into custody. Chilean diplomatic authorities are working to secure her release.

Context

Approximately 100 people have been killed and 1500 more injured due to social unrest since the beginning of the current wave of anti-government protests began in early April of this year. Anti-government supporters may be increasing their activity since Leopoldo Lopez, a prominent opposition leader, was released from a military prison on July 8 to serve the remainder of his 14-year sentence under house arrest. The opposition has announced that it plans to set up a "national unity" government and name alternative judges for the pro-Maduro Supreme Court, leading to speculation that a parallel state structure is being formed.

Violent and often deadly clashes between protesters and security forces continue to occur on a near-daily basis in Venezuela, most notably in the capital city of Caracas. The vast majority of the victims have been killed by security forces, who have repeatedly been accused of excessive use of force, and the situation continues to escalate with no resolution in sight. Pro-government militias are also reportedly behind some of the violence.

These developments follow on a long series of progressively worsening crises affecting the restive country in recent months and years, including a breakdown of the democratic system, major shortages of gasoline, medications, food, and other basic necessities, an alarming spike in rates of violent crime, massive inflation and economic recession, and a resurgence of disease. Protesters regularly demand early elections, the resignation of President Maduro, the release of political prisoners, and humanitarian assistance from the government.

Advice

Individuals in Caracas and other Venezuelan cities are advised to limit movements, to strictly avoid all protests and roadblocks due to the likelihood of violence and the risk of arbitrary arrest, and to closely monitor developments to the situation.