Venezuela: Protest planned in Caracas on June 21 /update 1

Event

A protest demanding respect for Venezuelans' human rights is slate to take place in Caracas on Friday, June 21, amid a nationwide strike called by opposition leader Juan Guaidó. The protest will take place at Avenida Francisco de Miranda starting at 11:00 (local time). The protests come as the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet visits Venezuela to meet with contested President Nicolas Maduro and Juan Guaidó.

Associated transportation disruptions and a heightened security presence are expected in the vicinity of the protests. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

Venezuela is experiencing an ongoing crisis spurred by President Nicolás Maduro's inauguration to a second term as president on January 10 following last year's contested election, prompting the National Assembly to declare a national emergency. At least 50 foreign governments, including the US, Canada, and Brazil, among others, have since recognized opposition leader Juan Guaidó as the interim head of state.

Advice

Individuals in Caracas are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all public demonstrations as a precaution, anticipate localized disruption and a heightened security presence in the event of any demonstrations, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.