The New Reality

Many people do not realize the extent of the economic issues in Venezuela. It has one of the world's  largest petroleum reserves and 96% of its export revenues depend on it. When the international oil prices were at an all-time high, Venezuela was able to use the added revenues to develop "Misiones". Misiones are social programs established under Hugo Chavez which involved building houses, improving roads, healthcare, and education. With the recent decline in oil prices, the revenues have dried up and the economy has suffered.

Since the death of the former president Hugo Chavez in March 2013, the country's economy has continued to spiral out of control. His successor, Nicolas Maduro, has implemented stricter government regulations which have been detrimental for the people of Venezuela and especially for those in the lower class. Although the unemployment rate is less than 8%, more than a third of the country is living under the poverty line. To many, these are just statistics, but to the people of Venezuela, it has very serious implications.

It has been increasingly difficult for Venezuelan citizens to purchase basic products such as shampoo, soap, toilet paper, oil, and milk. The government has responded to the shortages and the ridiculously long lines by restricting the day in which people can make purchases at supermarkets to once or twice a week. The day that one is allowed to step foot into a supermarket is determined by the individual's last number on the Venezuelan identification card. In some of the more populated regions, individuals are required to provide fingerprints. As one could imagine, this creates a very long wait at the register.

In addition, the most sought out items, such as milk and chicken, are being rationed and offered in bundles. In order to purchase milk, you must also purchase juice, etc. This can become quite a problem for those who do not have enough money to buy the bundles as they will have to go without these essential items.

Unfortunately, the poor people of Venezuela have been the most affected by this new reality for which an end does not seem near.