On the 12th of February 2025, the European Peacebuilding Liaison Office (EPLO) hosted an informal exchange with Search for Common Ground‘s (Search) Country Director for Venezuela, Cecilia Rivero.
Venezuela continues to face a deep political, economic, and humanitarian crisis, exacerbated by the contentious July 2024 presidential elections, which were marred by irregularities and repression. These events have deepened societal distrust and perpetuated a state of negative peace. Over seven million people have fled the country, while those who remain endure poverty, insecurity, and scarce access to basic necessities. A larger migratory wave is expected while the political context is still uncertain.
Amid these challenges, civil society and grassroots organizations persist in their advocacy for human rights, democratic governance, and social cohesion. Search has been actively working in Zulia and Caracas to build bridges across divides, fostering dialogue and peacebuilding in divided communities.
One month after Maduro’s third presidential inauguration, EPLO and Search for Common Ground invited civil society to share their experiences, challenges and best practices in these challenging times.
