1. Canada February 2015

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

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

4.  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 100.54 dollars.

5.  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.

6.  In 2014, the oil basket closed at $ 47.5. The inflation rate according to the BCV was 68.5% (56.2% in 2013), Unemployment: 796.213 persons, 5.5%, (5.6% in 2013).

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

8. 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.

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

10.  And a more profound militarization of Venezuelan society

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

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

13.  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.

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

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

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

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

18. Thank you Very Much