Venezuela has been facing numerous challenges in recent years, including political instability and social unrest. One of the groups affected by this turmoil are Venezuelans living abroad, particularly those residing in Argentina. These individuals have reached out to Pope Francis for help in securing their right to vote in the upcoming presidential elections scheduled for July 28th.
In a letter sent through the Jesuit Migrant Service, the Venezuelans expressed their concerns and appealed to the pope for his intervention with dictator Nicolás Maduro. They emphasized the need for pressure to be increased on Maduro’s government to fulfill electoral commitments and respect the rights of Venezuelans, both in Argentina and around the world.
Despite being a significant population, only a small percentage of the 220 thousand Venezuelans residing in Argentina are able to vote at the Venezuelan consulate in Buenos Aires. Reports of pressure and persecution of opponents in Venezuela have heightened tensions surrounding the upcoming elections. The Venezuelans in Argentina are taking action to ensure that their voices are heard and their rights are upheld.
Their efforts highlight the challenges faced by Venezuelans living abroad in participating in their homeland’s electoral process. Despite these obstacles, they remain determined to fight for their rights and make their voices heard in shaping the future of their country.
