Venezuela earthquake recovery will take years, Red Cross says

The recovery from the devastating earthquakes in Venezuela will be a long-term effort, measured in years rather than weeks, according to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). The disaster, which struck on June 24, claimed over 5,000 lives and left an indelible mark on the nation.

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The recovery here will be measured in years, not weeks.

Thousands of people suffering from chronic illnesses are facing critical disruptions to their treatments. This situation not only jeopardizes their health but also places immense additional pressure on a healthcare system already operating at its limits. Immediate priorities include medical care, mental health support, and ensuring access to safe drinking water, as highlighted by IFRC spokesperson Scott Craig.

"The recovery here will be measured in years, not weeks," Craig told journalists in Geneva. The disaster resulted in 5,000 deaths and 17,000 injuries, with approximately 23,000 individuals still residing in temporary shelters. Many families are reliant on bottled water for basic needs like drinking, cooking, and hygiene.

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Survivors are living with anxiety, fear, sadness, and insomnia as they mourn the loss of their family members, homes, jobs, and livelihoods.

The IFRC is appealing for sustained and flexible funding to support affected families throughout their recovery process. The organization aims to raise $60 million to assist 300,000 people over a two-year period, but has so far secured only 25% of these funds. "Survivors are living with anxiety, fear, sadness, and insomnia as they mourn the loss of their family members, homes, jobs, and livelihoods," Craig stated, emphasizing the profound psychological toll of the disaster. He also noted the extensive damage to health centers, schools, and essential infrastructure like water, electricity, and sewage systems.

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We call for sustained and flexible funding that can accompany families throughout their entire recovery process, not just during the weeks when the (television) cameras are present.