Venezuela faces economic crisis and rising political repression

Venezuela is facing a severe socio-economic and political crisis, according to recent reports. The organization Un Mundo Sin Mordaza documented an accumulated inflation rate of 129.82% in the first half of 2026. This economic instability is highlighted by a massive gap between the minimum wage, which stood at approximately 0.21 USD in June, and the cost of a basic food basket, which reached 772.74 USD.

Social unrest has escalated, with a 144% increase in protests compared to the previous year. Human rights concerns include the existence of 554 political prisoners and documented instances of forced disappearances and arbitrary detentions. Additionally, freedom of expression is under threat, with reports of website blockages and violations against media outlets.

In response to these conditions, Dinorah Figuera, head of the opposition delegation, received a report from the Inter-American Press Association (IAPA) in Madrid. The document, which details the closure of radio stations and restrictions on journalists from 1999 to 2026, will be included in the technical negotiation agenda scheduled to begin in September.