Share

Why Mercosur Is Stuck with Venezuela

By Oliver Stuenkel

Maduro may not be long for the presidency, but that doesn't mean Venezuela's foreign policy is changing.

Venezuela’s September 1 demonstrations, in which as many as a million people took to the streets of Caracas to demand a change in government, were certainly impressive. But were they effective? If the goal was to fundamentally alter the country’s political direction, the answer is probably “no.”

Despite the buzz generated by this month’s protests (dubbed “The Great Taking of Caracas” by the opposition), the chances of President Nicolás Maduro losing his job this year are slim. A recall referendum held before January 10, if won by the opposition, would lead to early general elections...

Read this article on the Americas Quarterly website. | Subscribe to AQ.

Related

Explore