María Corina Machado Warns of Massive Migration if Nicolás Maduro Wins

Venezuelan politician María Corina Machado has issued a dire warning that a massive wave of migration will follow if Nicolás Maduro wins the upcoming election. This warning comes amid growing support for Chavismo, despite the opposition's efforts to consolidate behind a single candidate.

Pollster Félix Seijas, director of the polling firm Delphos, has noted that fears or social pressures do not skew survey results in Venezuela. According to Seijas, people are sincere in their responses, and a significant portion of the population is willing to vote. However, he acknowledges that Chavismo's growing popularity is a result of targeted spending on its bases.

Seijas emphasizes the importance of unity among opposition voters. He believes that a unified candidacy or platform encompassing various opposition forces is essential. The recent primary election, won by María Corina Machado, has helped unify the opposition. Seijas asserts that Machado's endorsement is crucial for the opposition candidate, Edmundo González Urrutia, to gain legitimacy.

Machado's victory in the primary election has bolstered her significance within the opposition. Seijas notes that she symbolizes the possibility of change, much like previous opposition figures Henrique Capriles and Juan Guaidó. However, Machado's context is different, as Chavismo is currently more vulnerable electorally.

Why this matters: The potential for a massive wave of migration from Venezuela has significant implications for regional stability and global humanitarian efforts. If Maduro wins, the consequences could be devastating, leading to a surge in refugees and placing a strain on neighboring countries' resources.

The willingness of Venezuelans to participate in the electoral process is high, with around 80% expressing their intent to vote, according to Delphos surveys. Additionally, 70% believe that the electoral route should not be abandoned. Nevertheless, Seijas points out that actual participation may be lower because of mechanical abstention from Venezuelans living abroad.

The issue of eliminating opposition candidates or cards from the ballot remains a practical concern that could impact voter turnout. Seijas remarks that the primary election rekindled political interest and mobilization among the population, reviving the possibility of contesting elections.

Machado's warning about a potential migration wave is grounded in the current socio-political climate. The Latinobarometro survey indicates that prejudice against Venezuelan forced migrants is high and widespread across all education levels in Latin America. This concern is particularly relevant in Colombia, which hosts over 2.89 million Venezuelan migrants.

Efforts to reduce prejudice against Venezuelan migrants have shown promise. An experiment conducted in Colombia involving online videos and games simulated the experiences of Venezuelan migrants. The interventions improved prosocial behaviors and attitudes toward migrants, with participants more likely to donate to charities supporting Venezuelan migrants.

As Venezuela approaches its election, the stakes are high. The opposition's unity and Machado's significant role could be crucial in challenging Maduro's regime. However, the potential for a massive wave of migration remains a pressing concern if Maduro secures another term.

Key Takeaways

• Venezuelan politician María Corina Machado warns of massive migration wave if Maduro wins election.
• Pollster Félix Seijas notes Chavismo's growing popularity due to targeted public spending.
• Unity among opposition voters is crucial, with Machado's endorsement key for opposition candidate.
• 80% of Venezuelans intend to vote, but actual participation may be lower due to mechanical abstention.
• Prejudice against Venezuelan migrants is high, but efforts to reduce it have shown promise.