The Future of Venezuela Initiative

The Project influences policy dialogue on the future of Venezuela through strategic convening and critical research and policy analysis that produces practical, evidence-based, and forward-looking policy recommendations

Venezuela is a failed state that poses a significant security threat to the Western Hemisphere. The Future of Venezuela Initiative of the Center for Strategic & International Studies is led by director Ryan C. Berg.

Recent programming includes the following topics:

  • A roadmap and lessons for negotiations in Venezuela.
  • Violence and insecurity amidst the burgeoning presence of non-state actors.
  • Growing geopolitical challenges borne of foreign actors that prop up the Maduro Regime.
  • Tackling environmental degradation caused by illegal mining and gas flaring. 
  • The role of the oil sector in Venezuela’s economic degradation and economic rebuilding.
  • Improving the effectiveness of humanitarian assistance to Venezuelan migrants in neighboring countries and attending to the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Venezuela.
  • Advancing effective political engagement of youth and women in a democratic transition.
  • The effect and future of international sanctions on Venezuela.

Contact Information

Experts

Juan Cruz

Juan Cruz

Senior Adviser (Non-resident), Americas Program and Director, Argentina-U.S. Strategic Forum

All The Future of Venezuela Initiative Content

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Is Venezuela Moving Toward Democracy?

More than nine months after the capture of Nicolás Maduro, CSIS Americas Program Acting Director and Senior Fellow Christpher Hernandez-Roy and Antonella Navarro assess Venezuela's progress towards political transition.

Commentary by Christopher Hernandez-Roy and Antonella Navarro — September 23, 2026

Understanding the Implications of the U.S.-Venezuela Oil Deal

CSIS Americas Program Senior Associate Jose Ignacio Hernández explains the U.S.-Venezuela oil agreement and examines its implications for U.S. energy policy and Venezuela’s political transition.

Commentary by Jose Ignacio Hernández — September 4, 2026

Maduro Captured: What Comes Next for Venezuela?

Maduro’s capture is a significant tactical victory for the United States, the region, and Venezuelans. Whether it leads to long-term strategic gains for the United States and Venezuelans, meaning a return to democracy, will be clear only with time.

Commentary by Ryan C. Berg — January 3, 2026