Bishops echo earthquake victims' indignation over state neglect

Venezuela's Episcopal Conference (CEV) has called for the reconstruction process following the June 24 earthquakes to prioritize the needs of victims and prevent a repeat of past failures. The bishops stated that institutional shortcomings have left vulnerable sectors exposed to corruption and neglect.

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Reconstruction also demands that we echo the indignation of the earthquake victims who felt neglected by public institutions.

In their pastoral message, titled "Samaritans, Witnesses of Hope," the Venezuelan bishops noted that the tragedy not only caused thousands of deaths and material damage but also revealed the grievances of communities that felt unattended by state agencies during the emergency. "Reconstruction also demands that we echo the indignation of the earthquake victims who felt neglected by public institutions," the CEV affirmed in the document.

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Natural disasters are unpredictable; however, it is the obligation of state bodies to be prepared to face them.

The religious institution emphasized that while natural disasters are unpredictable, the state has an obligation to maintain prevention and response mechanisms to protect the population. The bishops insisted that the post-disaster phase must focus on guaranteeing dignified conditions for affected families, ensuring that the consequences do not disproportionately fall on those with fewer resources. "Henceforth, we must all ensure that the same mistakes of the past are not repeated in reconstruction efforts, otherwise, the weakest will once again suffer the consequences of corruption and indifference," warned the episcopate.

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Henceforth, we must all ensure that the same mistakes of the past are not repeated in reconstruction efforts, otherwise, the weakest will once again suffer the consequences of corruption and indifference.

The CEV proposed that reconstruction should extend beyond infrastructure recovery to encompass the holistic well-being of those affected. Families need access to adequate housing and dignified employment, along with support to overcome the emotional and psychological trauma caused by loss and destruction. The message also urged attention for other groups affected by the national crisis, including political prisoners, workers, pensioners, the sick, and immigrants, all of whom require support and the defense of their dignity. The pastoral message also recognized the solidarity shown by volunteers, rescuers, and communities who provided aid from the outset of the tragedy.

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For this, it is essential to create the necessary conditions that allow all affected families to fulfill their own purposes by themselves, without dependencies or paternalism.