The crisis in Venezuela

The only way to achieve peace in Venezuela is for the government and the opposition to reach a political agreement. That tough journey is the natural path in a divided country, where clashes have caused the deaths of more than 20 people, including government opponents, government supporters and law enforcement officers.

There are many reasons for discontent with Nicolás Maduro’s government: an inflation crisis, a shortage of basic products in businesses and the lack of public safety. The government’s mishandling of the economy for 15 years and political speculation from a portion of the private sector are responsible for part of this dissatisfaction.

At the same time, polarizing rhetoric, first from Hugo Chávez and later from Maduro, has only divided Venezuelans. It is true that Chávez helped improve the conditions of a previously abandoned group of people. However, the messianic ideas of the deceased president led him to create a structure, including armed militias, that goes against the democratic nature of the system. Maduro must deal with the grandiose vision he inherited, and with the fact that he won the latest election with a minimal number of votes. Therefore, the president must confront reality within a democratic framework.

The opposition should also be ready to negotiate. Continuing violent demonstrations that call for the Maduro’s resignation, the release of political prisoners, justice for victims of repression and the disarmament of paramilitaries won’t lead to this negotiation goal.

In order to negotiate pragmatically with the government, the opposition needs to develop a common strategy. That would be a big deal, because divided, they just strengthen the government.

Dialogue and negotiations are the only path that respects the will of the people, expressed during the latest election. Real solutions cannot be reached through force. The government and the opposition hold Venezuela’s future in their hands.