Why Venezuela’s decade of civil unrest stems from economic collapse and systemic corruption

History · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Since 2013, Venezuela has faced waves of intense civil insurrection driven by hyperinflation, severe shortages, and rising violence. While the government frames these protests as foreign-backed coup attempts, critics point to deep-seated authoritarianism and the erosion of democratic institutions as the true catalysts for the country's ongoing political crisis.

The unrest began in earnest in 2014, following the murder of Mónica Spear and the alleged abuse of students in San Cristóbal. These events ignited nationwide demonstrations against the administration of Nicolás Maduro, who assumed power after the 2013 death of Hugo Chávez. Protesters cited deteriorating security, chronic shortages of basic goods, and the government’s reliance on strict price controls—policies that economists argue exacerbated the country's economic vulnerability to fluctuating oil prices.

As the crisis deepened, the opposition became increasingly fractured over strategy. While moderate leaders like Henrique Capriles initially sought dialogue, others, including Leopoldo López, advocated for more combative tactics. By 2017, the situation escalated into a constitutional crisis when the Supreme Tribunal of Justice attempted to seize the powers of the National Assembly. This period saw massive mobilizations, including the 'Mother of all Protests,' which drew millions of participants amid allegations of electoral manipulation and the systematic repression of dissent.

The government’s response has drawn widespread condemnation from international bodies like the United Nations and Human Rights Watch. Authorities have been accused of using excessive force, including live ammunition, against peaceful demonstrators. Furthermore, the state has been linked to 'colectivos'—armed pro-government militant groups—that have intimidated journalists and protesters. Despite international sanctions and persistent civil resistance, the regime has maintained control by characterizing opposition as a 'fascist' economic war, while the country continues to struggle with one of the world's highest inflation rates and a collapsed rule of law.

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