Venezuela: Political Conditions and U.S. Policy (CRS Report for Congress)
| Release Date |
Dec. 9, 2003 |
| Report Number |
RS20978 |
| Report Type |
Report |
| Authors |
Mark P. Sullivan, Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division |
| Source Agency |
Congressional Research Service |
Summary:
After months of OAS-facilitated negotiations, the government of Hugo Chavez and the opposition signed an agreement in May 2003 to resolve the political crisis that has plagued Venezuela for over a year. Implementation of the accord could lead to a recall referendum for President Chavez in March or April 2004. Some observers emphasize that the accord is an important step for achieving political stability, while others are skeptical that it will resolve political conflict in the country. Since Chavezs 1998 election, Venezuela has undergone enormous political changes, with a new constitution and revamped political institutions. Chavez remained widely popular until mid-2001, but his popularity eroded significantly after that amid his ineffectiveness in improving living conditions and concerns that he has been imposing a leftist agenda on the country. The United States has traditionally had close relations with Venezuela, but there has been friction in relations with the Chavez government. The Bush Administration has expressed strong support for the work of the OAS in resolving the crisis and welcomed the May 2003 political accord.
