Listen as CSIS Americas had a public discussion on the policy implications of Venezuela’s escalation into a hub of organized crime. The political, social, and security chaos in Venezuela has stimulated a two-decade-long systematic erosion of the country’s institutions – creating the perfect breeding ground for illicit activity. Even as the United States and the international community increase pressure on the Venezuelan regime, Venezuela continues to solidify itself as a major player in money laundering, illicit drug production and drug transit. In response to Venezuelan government’s continuous human right violations and involvement in narco-trafficking, among other illicit activities, the United States and other like-minded countries have sanctioned more than 70 high-level Venezuelan government officials and military members, including President Nicolas Maduro and Vice-President Delcy Rodriguez.
