Deep Dive: Cofavic marks 37th Caracazo anniversary, demands justice for victims and political prisoners

The Caracazo represents a pivotal moment in Venezuelan history, a widespread social upheaval triggered by economic austerity measures under President Carlos Andrés Pérez in 1989. Cofavic's commemoration on its 37th anniversary underscores the enduring failure of the state to address the victims' demands for truth, justice, and reparation. Liliana Ortega's statement frames these elements as prerequisites for reconciliation and non-repetition, highlighting how unresolved grievances perpetuate cycles of unrest. Family members of political prisoners continue to echo the Caracazo protests, demanding releases amid ongoing political tensions. This repetition of scenes from 37 years ago signals a lack of progress in human rights accountability, with Cofavic positioning itself as a key voice for victims. The emphasis on state debt to justice reflects broader societal fractures that hinder national healing. The implications extend to Venezuela's political stability, as unaddressed historical traumas fuel current activism. Without institutional responses to these calls, reconciliation remains elusive, potentially exacerbating divisions. Cofavic's role amplifies victim narratives, pressuring the state toward reparative measures for closure. Looking ahead, the anniversary serves as a reminder that pending debts from the Caracazo influence contemporary demands, shaping the outlook for human rights in Venezuela. Stakeholders like families and NGOs continue advocating, but systemic change requires state action on truth commissions or reparations to break the cycle.