Venezuelans consider leaving if Maduro is reelected

Many Venezuelans, particularly the younger generation, consider leaving the country if Nicolás Maduro is re-elected, despite his promises of employment and advocacy for migrants. Previously, his government denied the migration crisis, with influential politicians like Diosdado Cabello dismissing it as a media fabrication. Maduro now acknowledges the issue as part of his re-election strategy, amid a disillusioned voter base. Despite this, his promises hold little credibility for many Venezuelans, who may choose to emigrate if he wins the election on July 28. There are currently an estimated 7.7 million Venezuelan migrants and refugees. Economic reasons primarily drive the intention to emigrate, with some hoping an opposition victory or economic improvement might keep them in the country. Emigration discussions permeate various social settings in Venezuela. The country’s crisis, worsened by declining oil prices, corruption, mismanagement, and economic sanctions, has pushed many into poverty and despair, leading to a significant exodus. Maduro has lashed out against media reports linking Venezuelan migrants to crimes and called for their return, stressing a message against xenophobia. The upcoming election remains pivotal as Maduro seeks to extend his term amid challenges from opposition leaders like María Corina Machado. The top court supported a decision blocking Machado’s candidacy, leading her coalition to back Edmundo González Urrutia. Though González is not widely recognized, Machado’s support boosts his appeal among voters. At his first rally, González urged voters to envision a country where children return home, highlighting his economic reform promises. Miguel Montilla, a retired serviceman, expressed hope that González’s leadership might reunite his family in Venezuela. If Maduro wins, Montilla considers encouraging his remaining child to leave the country. A Delphos poll indicated high emigration tendencies among young adults aged 18-34. Venezuelan officials earn insufficient wages to afford basic goods, prompting migration. Low salaries were cited by students considering emigration, despite aspirations like becoming engineers or business owners. Many students attended a government rally but refrained from publicly supporting Maduro, indicating economic need as a primary concern. Original Text by Regina García Cano, publish in-> AP

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