4 DEC 2023 · Venezuela Rejects ICJ Jurisdiction in Dispute with Guyana Background The dispute between Venezuela and Guyana over the Essequibo region dates back to the 19th century. Venezuela claims the entire Essequibo region, which is about two-thirds the size of Guyana, while Guyana maintains that the border was settled by an arbitral tribunal in 1899. In 2015, Venezuela asked the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to rule on the validity of the 1899 arbitral award. Guyana challenged the ICJ's jurisdiction over the case, but in 2018, the ICJ ruled that it did have jurisdiction. Sunday's Referendum On Sunday, December 3, 2023, Venezuela held a consultative referendum on the ICJ's jurisdiction in the dispute with Guyana. The Venezuelan government said that the referendum was necessary to consult the Venezuelan people on the issue. The referendum asked two questions: - Do you approve of the Venezuelan government's decision to submit the controversy over the Essequibo region to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for its decision? - Do you agree that the ICJ has the jurisdiction to resolve the controversy over the Essequibo region? Results The Venezuelan government said that more than 10.5 million Venezuelans participated in the referendum, which is more than half of the country's eligible voters. The government said that 95% of the voters approved of the government's decision to submit the controversy to the ICJ, and 96% agreed that the ICJ has the jurisdiction to resolve the controversy. International Reaction The Venezuelan government's announcement of the referendum results was met with skepticism from some international observers. The European Union said that it was "concerned" about the referendum, and the United States said that it was "disappointed" by the referendum's outcome. Next Steps The ICJ is scheduled to hear the case between Venezuela and Guyana in June 2024. It remains to be seen whether the ICJ's ruling will be respected by both parties. Analysis The Venezuelan government's referendum on the ICJ's jurisdiction in the dispute with Guyana is a significant development in the long-running territorial dispute between the two countries. The referendum is a sign that the Venezuelan government is prepared to take the case to the ICJ, and it could also be seen as a way for the government to show domestic support for its position on the issue. However, the referendum's results have been met with skepticism from some international observers, and it remains to be seen whether the ICJ's ruling will be respected by both parties. Key Takeaways - Venezuela held a consultative referendum on the ICJ's jurisdiction in the dispute with Guyana on Sunday, December 3, 2023. - The Venezuelan government said that more than 10.5 million Venezuelans participated in the referendum, and that 95% of the voters approved of the government's decision to submit the controversy to the ICJ. - The ICJ is scheduled to hear the case between Venezuela and Guyana in June 2024. - The Venezuelan government's referendum is a significant development in the long-running territorial dispute between the two countries. Thanks for listening to Quiet Please. Remember to like and share wherever you get your podcasts.

4 DEC 2023 · Venezuela: A Nation Forged in Struggle and Conflict Venezuela, a South American nation nestled on the Caribbean coast, boasts a rich and tumultuous history, marked by both periods of prosperity and strife. From its colonial roots under Spanish rule to its current status as a resource-rich yet politically challenged nation, Venezuela's story is one of resilience, struggle, and diplomatic tensions. Colonial Era and the Struggle for Independence Venezuela's history can be traced back to the 16th century when Spanish conquistadors arrived seeking gold and other riches. The indigenous inhabitants, primarily the Caribs and the Arawaks, faced subjugation and decimation under Spanish rule. In 1810, Venezuela embarked on its fight for independence from Spain, led by Simón Bolívar, a visionary military leader who became known as the "Liberator of South America." After years of armed conflict, Venezuela finally secured its independence in 1821, joining the newly formed Gran Colombia federation. Post-Independence Era: Political Turmoil and Resource Wealth Venezuela's post-independence era was characterized by political instability, economic fluctuations, and a series of coups and dictatorships. The country's vast oil reserves, discovered in the early 20th century, brought both wealth and challenges, as oil became a central pillar of the economy and a source of political power struggles. Territorial Disputes with Neighbors Venezuela's borders have been a source of contention with its neighbors, particularly Guyana and Colombia. The dispute with Guyana over the Essequibo region, which encompasses two-thirds of Guyana's territory, remains unresolved despite international mediation efforts. In the case of Colombia, border tensions have flared over the Gulf of Venezuela, a maritime area rich in oil and natural gas. The two countries have engaged in diplomatic disputes and occasional naval skirmishes over the rights to these resources. Chávez Era and the Bolivarian Revolution Hugo Chávez, a charismatic military officer, emerged as a dominant figure in Venezuelan politics in the late 1990s. His populist and socialist-inspired Bolivarian Revolution promised radical social and economic reforms, appealing to many Venezuelans seeking change. Chávez's presidency was marked by significant changes, including the nationalization of industries, land reforms, and social welfare programs. He also forged close ties with other left-wing governments in Latin America, challenging the traditional dominance of the United States in the region. Post-Chávez Era and Continued Challenges Following Chávez's death in 2013, his successor, Nicolás Maduro, continued his policies, facing growing economic hardship and political opposition. Venezuela's economy has spiraled into a deep recession, marked by hyperinflation, shortages of basic goods, and widespread discontent. The Maduro government has been accused of authoritarianism, human rights abuses, and corruption, further deteriorating relations with the United States and other Western countries. Venezuela's Future: Navigating Challenges and Seeking Stability Venezuela's future remains uncertain as it grapples with complex political, economic, and social challenges. The country's vast resources offer the potential for prosperity, but the path to stability and sustainable development is fraught with difficulties. Despite the challenges, the Venezuelan people have demonstrated remarkable resilience throughout their history. Their ongoing struggle for a more just and equitable society is a testament to their determination to shape a better future for their nation. Thanks for listening to Quiet Please. Remember to like and share wherever you get your podcasts