As Venezuela Crumbles, Opposition Led by Juan Guaidó Sees an Opportunity

As Venezuela Crumbles, Opposition Led by Juan Guaidó Sees an Opportunity
By: Iselin Brady

Since 2010, Venezuela has been in a state of economic war, experiencing one of the worst recessions in the history of the Western Hemisphere. Because Venezuela’s economy heavily depends on oil exports, the crisis has only worsened since 2014, when oil prices significantly dropped. The government has not only been accused of being corrupt, but several countries have placed sanctions on them. Due to their economic state, millions of people have fled the country. In May of 2018, the previous president, Nicolás Maduro, was re-elected through what many called an illegitimate election. While there is an opposition party that has been attempting to overthrow the oppressive government, they have been unsuccessful up to this point. A new opportunity has arise, however, with Juan Guaidó taking the responsibility of leading this party. Guaidó has been urging citizens to resist the government and not give up the dream of democracy. This has given new hope to the opposition. A few days ago, a group of soldiers turned against the government at a military base in Caracas. Guaidó encouraged the Venezuelans to organize and go onto the streets to protest. If they do so, it would mark the first mass mobilization since a 2017 protest where government security forces killed over 100 people. Maduro’s administration has already stated that they plan on arresting Guaidó, as they have with many of the oppositions previous leaders.
This is an interest time for the Venezuelan people. Guaidó’s leadership skills have offered a new spark to the opposition party, which could lead to a weakening of the oppressive government.


https://www.nytimes.com/2019/01/22/world/americas/who-is-juan-guaido.html?rref=collection%2Fsectioncollection%2Fworld&action=click&contentCollection=world&region=rank&module=package&version=highlights&contentPlacement=2&pgtype=sectionfront