Venezuela risks becoming 'atypical authoritarian technocracy,' NGO warns

The Venezuelan NGO Provea has expressed grave concern over the country's political and economic trajectory, warning of an emerging "atypical authoritarian technocracy." This model, the organization states, blends economic decisions favoring private capital with the ongoing suppression of citizens' rights.

Provea criticizes the interim government, which it claims is influenced by the United States, for prioritizing the interests of transnational corporations. This focus, the NGO argues, comes at the expense of citizens' rights and the pressing needs of the Venezuelan people. The organization pointed out that while the government advances economic reforms and negotiates with Washington, workers and retirees continue to protest for dignified wages and pensions, which have been frozen since 2022.

The NGO also raised alarms about the continued detention of political prisoners. Despite government announcements of releases, Provea asserts that hundreds remain imprisoned for political reasons. Crucially, the organization stated that the legal framework used to criminalize and prosecute opponents and activists remains unchanged. This system, Provea contends, continues to function as a tool for political persecution.

Furthermore, Provea highlighted the persistent deterioration of public services, including electricity and water, which significantly impacts daily life for millions. The NGO's warnings come as the interim government deepens the opening of strategic sectors to foreign investment, a move that Provea believes overlooks fundamental societal demands and environmental considerations for new extractive projects.