Special correspondent’s reception – SCAM
Venezuela between civil war and Cold War

© LUIS ROBAYO / AFP

Friday October 11^th

Special correspondent’s reception – SCAM
Venezuela between civil war and Cold War

Since the death of Hugo Chavez in 2013 Venezuela has been sinking deep into a double crisis. Firstly, an economic crisis due to the drop in oil revenues which are the country’s main resource, together with hyperinflation, is causing food and medicine shortages which have led to the exodus of 4 million Venezuelans. There is also a political crisis stemming from the opposition’s victory in the legislative elections. The opposition declared its leader Juan Guaido interim president on 23 January 2019 in order to curb the authoritarian power of Chavez’ successor Nicolas Maduro, with the support of the United States and several Latin American countries. This support was immediately denounced by Maduro’s supporters, the army chiefs of staff but also Russia and China. Aside from a geopolitical situation reminiscent of the Cold War, total confusion reigns. How can a solution be found to this political stalemate with two clearly identified camps opposing one another? How can the country’s economy be revived to improve the daily lives of Venezuelans who are below the poverty threshold? How can the logic of neighbourhood gangs and militia who create an atmosphere of civil war be ended? How can a way be found around the partisan strategies and pressures which threaten the independence of the local press? What is really going on in Venezuela?

A reception prepared and animated by Eric Valmir Medhi Lebouachera (AFP), Andreina Flores (RFI) and Pascale Mariani (France 24).

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Pavillon
Place Gauquelin-Despallières
Doors open at 8 pm

Free Admission

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This evening is realized thanks to the support of the SCAM