Dear John,
As a Venezuelan citizen abroad who has been unable to vote in over a decade, I am happy to share that I voted last weekend in the primary elections organized by members of the opposition in Venezuela. I voted because I believe that, in doing so, I was exercising a political right, one that supports the restoration and reconstruction of democracy, something Venezuelans aspire to.
It may be optimistic to think that there could be free and fair presidential elections next year in Venezuela, but renewed negotiations between the Maduro government and the Unitary Platform allow me to at least be hopeful that there is a window of opportunity to achieve a democratic and peaceful transition to democracy.
My focus this week has therefore been on the many elections taking place in the region.
As Program Assistant, Kelsey Kotts, wrote this week, Colombians head to the polls on Sunday in regional and local elections that are likely to reflect on the administration of Gustavo Petro, a year into his presidency. Members of the international community, and particularly U.S policymakers may want to pay close attention as many of these elected officials could prove to be key players not only for the implementation of the Peace Accords but in addressing regional migration, particularly in cities such as Bogotá, Cúcuta, Medellín and Necoclí.
On that note, this week Adam Isacson, WOLA’s border security expert, and Laura Dib, our Director for Venezuela, are in the Darién region of Colombia to meet with local partners and see first- hand how migration is impacting the region.
Looking ahead to next year, El Salvador, Mexico, Venezuela and the U.S, among others, will be holding general elections. And if all goes well in Guatemala, president elect Bernardo Arévalo will take office in January. Elections alone cannot guarantee the respect for human rights but they are a key stepping stone towards building a healthy democracy.
Thank you for your support as WOLA continues to keep an eye on elections and human rights in the region.
Best,
