In August 2024, Venezuela experienced a surge of political unrest with 229 street protests against Nicolás Maduro’s regime, following the controversial presidential election results in July.
Demonstrators demanded electoral transparency and recognition of Edmundo González as the legitimate winner, leading to a swift and forceful response from the government with heavy police and military presence in opposition gathering points.
Simultaneously, 115 pro-government demonstrations occurred, calling for recognition of Maduro’s re-election. The crackdown on opposition coalition, Plataforma Unitaria Democrática (PUD), in nine states raised concerns about democracy in Venezuela.
OVCS documented a total of 413 protests in August, with the majority focusing on civil and political rights, while others addressed public service failures and low wages.
The ongoing crisis also involves increased persecution of opposition leaders, protesters, and journalists, along with digital censorship and the arrest of minors following the post-election protests.
As tensions escalate, the international community closely monitors developments in Venezuela, witnessing the deep political divisions within the country.