Members of the Venezuelan diaspora are using their political power to make a difference from their host countries in Latin America. They are hoping to impact the current political situation in Venezuela, where negotiations with the Maduro government are ongoing. Colombia and Brazil, allies of the Maduro government, have taken the lead in trying to find solutions to the electoral dispute, calling for the release of paper ballots and respecting the will of the Venezuelan people. However, their proposals for new elections and power-sharing between the government and opposition have been met with resistance.
The Venezuelan diaspora is actively working with political leaders in countries like Peru, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Argentina, Uruguay, and Panama, who have recognized Gonzalez as the newly elected president of Venezuela. They hope to garner more support from world leaders before the January inauguration. Venezuelan migrants, many of whom are political leaders in exile, are engaging with lawmakers in Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, Argentina, Chile, and other Latin American countries to influence policy decisions. They stress the importance of prioritizing democracy over political alliances and ideological differences.
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Colombian President Gustavo Petro have proposed solutions to the Venezuelan political crisis, such as holding new elections and alternating power between the government and opposition. However, these ideas have faced pushback from opposition members both inside and outside of Venezuela. Colombia and Brazil have also called for the release of voting tallies by the Maduro government and an end to international sanctions against Venezuela to alleviate pressure on its economy.
In the face of a ruling by Venezuela’s Supreme Court in favor of Maduro’s victory claim without evidence, Colombia and Brazil reiterated their demand for transparency and accountability in the electoral process. They have stressed the importance of peaceful resolution and have not recognized either Maduro or Gonzalez as the winner of the elections. Despite challenges and conflicting proposals, leaders in the region are committed to finding a resolution that addresses concerns on both sides and restores democratic principles in Venezuela.
Venezuelan activists and political leaders in exile are working tirelessly to shape policy and advocate for election transparency in their host countries and beyond. Organizations like Venezuela Global, based in Brazil, are dedicated to promoting democracy and human rights in Venezuela. By engaging with lawmakers and world leaders, these activists are hoping to bring attention to the political situation in Venezuela and advocate for a peaceful and democratic resolution to the ongoing crisis. The efforts of the Venezuelan diaspora are crucial in driving international support and pressure for change in their home country.
