In 2024, illegal mining in Venezuela remains an escalating challenge, with devastating impacts on violence, ecocide, and corruption. Mining activities in the southern part of the country, particularly in the states of Bolívar and Amazonas, continue to be controlled by criminal groups and organized mafias exploiting natural resources illegally. This phenomenon not only affects Venezuela but also has global repercussions, strengthening authoritarian regimes and contributing to environmental destruction and human rights violations.
Illegal Mining in Venezuela: The Current Situation in 2024
Illegal mining continues to be one of the main industries in southern Venezuela, especially in the Orinoco Mining Arc. This area is key for the extraction of minerals such as gold, diamonds, bauxite, and coltan, but it is also one of the most vulnerable areas for human rights violations and environmental destruction.
Environmental and Social Impact of Illegal Mining in Venezuela
Illegal mines are destroying vital ecosystems, such as Venezuela’s rainforest, and contaminating rivers with mercury, severely affecting the health of Indigenous communities. These groups, whose livelihoods are closely tied to their ancestral lands, are being displaced by illegal mining, directly violating their fundamental rights.
In 2024, efforts to curb illegal mining in Venezuela remain insufficient, and the situation is worsening with the increase in violence and repression by authorities and criminal groups.
Global Corruption and the Illegal Mineral Trade from Venezuela
The illegal mineral trade from Venezuela continues to fuel international corruption. Governments of countries like Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Iran, and Russia are involved in the illegal purchase of Venezuelan gold, which allows Nicolás Maduro’s regime to stay in power. These countries are not only violating international sanctions but are also contributing to the deterioration of global democracy.
The Role of the International Community in 2024: A Call to Action
International Responsibility to Combat Illegal Mining
In 2024, the international community has the opportunity and the responsibility to address the widespread illegality in Venezuela’s southern states in a coordinated manner. The renewal of the mandate for the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Venezuela is crucial to document and expose the systematic human rights violations taking place in the country’s southern region.
International investigations must delve into the illicit activities related to mining and pressurize the corrupt actors both inside and outside Venezuela to face the consequences of their actions.
National and International Action Against Corruption and the Illegal Mineral Trade
Foreign governments, especially those in countries with strong judicial systems, must use their resources to investigate and sanction companies and individuals involved in Venezuelan illegal mining. The use of the Global Magnitsky Act by the United States, for example, is key to dismantling the transnational corruption networks.
Strengthening International Transparency Standards in Venezuelan Mining
To combat the illegal mineral trade from Venezuela, it is essential that multinational corporations implement strict transparency measures in their supply chains. Due diligence is critical to ensure Venezuelan minerals do not reach international markets without being traced, allowing corruption to remain in the shadows.
Transparency policies and anti-money laundering regulations are vital to ensure corporations respect human rights and the environment.
Supporting Venezuelan Civil Society: The Role of Indigenous Groups and Journalists
Empowering Indigenous Groups and Human Rights Defenders
In this context, it is crucial for the international community to support Indigenous groups and investigative journalists who work in extremely dangerous conditions to expose abuses related to illegal mining. These groups need access to secure technology and resources to document and report human rights violations.
Conclusion: Global Commitment is Crucial to Stopping Illegal Mining in Venezuela
Illegal mining in Venezuela is a transnational issue that affects not only Venezuela but also global political and economic stability. In 2024, the international community must intensify efforts to combat corruption, promote accountability, and support those fighting for the rights of Indigenous peoples and environmental preservation.