Venezuela and Venezuelans
June 26, 2024
According to the latest census, three population groups have increased in number. Most of the population holds Dutch nationality, accounting for 85.5 percent. This represents a decrease of 3.2 percentage points compared to 2011. Colombian nationals are in second place with 2.9 percent, an increase of 0.7 percentage points since 2011. The Dominican nationality comes third, rising from 1.9 percent in 2011 to 2.3 percent in 2023. Venezuela has seen the fastest growth, just missing the top three, increasing from 0.8 percent in 2011 to 2.2 percent in 2023.
I encounter Venezuelans regularly. Some are relatives of my wife. They have always been present, but their profile has changed. Many I meet are well-educated and are part of the Venezuelan middle class. Now, they are here, often working in jobs below their qualifications. They lead challenging lives and seek out fellow countrymen. They once belonged to the Venezuelan middle class, living in large cities and maintaining strong family ties. Now, their families are scattered worldwide, with reunions happening virtually.
How did this happen in one of the wealthiest countries? For decades, the established political elite failed to lift the masses out of poverty. Increasingly, voters turned to (left-wing) populists who, once in power, wrecked the economy and democracy. As a result, many had to flee the country, losing everything and suddenly finding themselves poor with no prospect of better times.
Why should we care about this? No one thought this could happen in Venezuela, but what happened there can happen here. If we are not careful, many could lose everything. We are already the poorest within the kingdom.
This is why I have a deep respect for Venezuelans. They have much to teach us.
Miguel Goede
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