Insights

Expect further disruptions to travel and business on 20 July

Venezuela’s opposition have called for a nationwide strike to take place on 20 July, to protest against the government’s plan to elect a constituent assembly to rewrite the country's constitution. It is likely that transport will be stopped and shops and restaurants closed. The announcement for the strike came after the opposition announced their “Zero Hour” campaign which intends to step up protest action and put more pressure on President Maduro. The campaign is set to begin on 19 July. The opposition plan to create 2000 local committees to gather more support. Venezuela is now also facing pressure from the United States.

Those operating or residing in Venezuela are advised to be aware the country is in a deep political and economic crisis. There have been almost daily protests against Maduro’s government since 1 April and over 73 people have been killed in protest-related violence. Avoid all large protests and gatherings of people, due to the credible risk of detention and protest-related violence. Seek shelter if tensions begin to escalate. Reroute your plans to avoid travelling within Caracas in the near term.