By Matt Underwood US travelers to Venezuela are being strongly urged by the State Department to prepare a will before visiting. This isn’t necessarily a new policy, it’s a standard procedure for countries deemed extremely dangerous, reflecting a long-standing assessment of Venezuela’s risk level. The current advisory mirrors warnings issued for many years, emphasizing the high risk of wrongful detention, torture, terrorism, kidnapping, and crime, alongside issues like arbitrary law enforcement, civil unrest, and a deficient healthcare system.
The travel warning is unsurprising given the ongoing political and economic turmoil in Venezuela, a situation that has driven tens of thousands of its citizens to seek refuge in the United States. The country’s instability has been a persistent issue across multiple US administrations, marked by questionable elections and heightened diplomatic tensions. Even before the current crisis deepened, warnings were issued, and American airlines stopped servicing the country due to safety concerns and economic realities.
While the advice to prepare a will may seem dramatic, it’s consistent with advisories for other similarly high-risk nations. It’s a precaution reflective of the severe dangers faced by travelers in the current climate. The State Department’s language isn’t unique to Venezuela; similar phrasing appears in advisories for numerous countries classified as “Do Not Travel” destinations. One should consult the official State Department travel advisory map for up-to-date information on international travel safety.
The current situation isn’t entirely new; concerns about Venezuela’s safety and stability have persisted for over a decade. Personal anecdotes from those who have visited, detailing chaotic conditions and incidents of detention, further highlight the precarious nature of travel there. The level of risk extends beyond political unrest and encompasses broader safety issues, including crime and inadequate infrastructure.
Some argue that the warning is overblown, suggesting that the danger is exaggerated and that it’s possible to travel safely within certain parameters. Those who have family in the country or who are involved in essential work, such as missionary work or volunteer projects, may still need to travel, albeit with caution. The reality, however, remains that it’s a country with systemic problems affecting safety and stability, rendering travel inherently more risky than in many other parts of the world.
It’s important to separate the current warning from political motivations. While some may link the advisory to the Trump administration, the inherent dangers within Venezuela have existed for far longer, transcending political affiliations and administrations. The advisory simply reflects the objectively dangerous situation on the ground, regardless of who is in power. The situation is further complicated by Venezuela’s relationships with other global powers, contributing to its overall precarious status.
For those considering travel to Venezuela, a comprehensive risk assessment is crucial. Weighing the potential benefits against the clearly stated and substantial risks is essential. While some legitimate reasons exist for travel to the country, the State Department’s urgent warnings should not be taken lightly. Understanding the current conditions and potential threats is paramount to making an informed decision about travel safety. The preparation of a will, therefore, is a reasonable precaution, aligning with the serious risks outlined by the State Department.