Read a summary of this discussion here.

The first installment of the Pacific Council’s 2018 Summer Teleconference Series, on Venezuela’s socioeconomic and political landscape following the May 20 election.

Despite Venezuela’s crippling economic collapse, including hyperinflation, widespread food shortages, and a refugee crisis, the May 20 presidential election had many Venezuelans choosing abstention over voting. Members of Venezuela’s Opposition Coalition cited corruption and voter fraud as reasons behind their boycott, claiming that the current government, led by President Nicolás Maduro, all but ensured his reelection, preventing the possibility of a free and fair vote. U.S. Vice President Mike Pence echoed the opposition’s sentiment, claiming, "Venezuela’s election was a sham—neither free nor fair. The illegitimate result of this fake process is a further blow to the proud democratic tradition of Venezuela."

What does the future hold for Venezuela’s political process? Will democracy ever be restored in Venezuela? How will the international community respond to the election results?

Listen to the full conversation below:

Featuring:

Ambassador Patrick Duddy, Director, Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies, Duke University

Patrick Duddy served as U.S. Ambassador to Venezuela from 2007-2010. Read more.

Ambassador Charles Shapiro, President, World Affairs Council, Atlanta

Charles Shapiro served as U.S. Ambassador to Venezuela from 2002-2004. Read more.

Contributing Moderator:

Dr. Katja Newman, President, KSN Consulting; & Visiting Researcher, Georgetown University

Katja Newman is the founder and president of KSN Consulting, Inc. Read more.