Security

Every day, 76 people are killed on average in Venezuela, placing the country and the capital city among the most dangerous in the world.

Repression by security forces and paramilitary groups known as colectivos has caused dozens of fatalities while taking control of urban neighborhoods and rural towns. The presence of organized crime combined with illegal arms and impunity, as well as rampant police and military corruption, have exacerbated violence throughout the country. One of the first priorities for a ‘Day After’ administration should be to disarm irregular groups while addressing corruption and human rights violations within security forces.

Coordinated international assistance will be essential to establish a safe and secure environment during a transition and start building legitimate and stable security institutions. The support from a restructured Venezuelan military under legitimate, civilian governance will be essential.