Katherine E. Bliss
Published: 2017
Total Pages: 16
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Given the rapidly changing political environment in Venezuela, and the ongoing reluctance of the Maduro administration to recognize continuing challenges or seek external assistance for health, many experts anticipate the health situation in Venezuela will remain difficult for the foreseeable future. With an expanding malaria outbreak affecting states across the country, shortages of food and essential medicines reported in all areas, dire economic forecasts, and mounting political uncertainty, the possibility that Venezuela's situation could deteriorate into an internationally recognized humanitarian crisis, with extensive violence, population displacement, and considerable loss of life, should be carefully considered. Taking into account both the gravity of Venezuela's health situation and the currently limited options for international engagement, the United States and the international community must work through multiple channels to continue to find ways to support the Venezuelan people in meeting their basic health needs.