Canada February 2015

From social inclusion and political exclusion… To social exclusion and political exclusion

 Under former president Chávez, the reduction of poverty and social inclusion were achieved.

 Under president Nicolás Maduro, in 2013, poverty levels grew 6 points based on official INE (National Statistics Institute) figures and went from 21.2 to 27.3 %. The oil basket was at dollars.

 A total of 416,326 households were incorporated into the large population of poor persons. As of 2013, there were 9,174,142 poor persons, 2,791,292 of which were in extreme poverty.

 In 2014, the oil basket closed at $ The inflation rate according to the BCV was 68.5% (56.2% in 2013), Unemployment: persons, 5.5%, (5.6% in 2013).

According to CEPAL, current poverty levels are 32%. We are facing a regression in social rights and social exclusion.

Growing social protest is understandable. From 2009 to 2013 there have been 21,439 protests, more of 70% of which are related to clamors for social rights.

 There is also a deeper regression in civil and political rights.  Political exclusion.

 And a more profound militarization of Venezuelan society

 We are advancing towards a police state. A legal web aimed at repressing dissidence and confrontation of the people against the people.

 It is a risk to call for a strike in the public sector. More than 100 union leaders are awaiting criminal trials.

 Proggresive restriction of the right to peaceful manifestation and political discrimination in the guarantees in the law. In 2014, there were more than 3000 protesters detained or arrested.

 Absence of an independent judiciary power which hinders the resolution of conflicts. High levels of impunity.

 The absence of dialogue deepens the crisis and favors scenarios of violence.

 Risk of violence at the hands of the people or unconstitutional and anti- democratic exits.

 Solidarity with the Venezuelan people is fundamental as well as rejecting violent actions. Contribute to dialogue.

Thank you Very Much