Responding to the ongoing power outages in Venezuela, CARE International experts have warned that the situation is exacerbating an already catastrophic humanitarian situation.
Catalina Vargas, the Humanitarian Regional Coordinator for Latin America, said:
“We are aware that things have pretty much ground to a halt because of the power outages and the lack of water – both very critical needs for survival. The impact of these developments comes at a very dear cost to Venezuelans in terms of their general health and sanitation needs.
“Even more worryingly, there are reports of increased incidents of criminality to compound what was an already catastrophic humanitarian situation. Women and girls are increasingly exposed to and are vulnerable to abuse and exploitation. CARE and its partners are continuing to provide support to ensure that tackling gender-based violence; and the wellbeing of women and girls are at the forefront of responding to this crisis.
“This power outage has additionally paralyzed the country for almost a week now and is worsening the food crisis that has been ongoing for years. Most Venezuelans can just about manage to have one meal a day. As a result, 72 per cent of all children suffer from malnutrition.”
Media Contacts:
Mahmoud Shabeeb, +962-79-146-39-03 mshabeeb@care.org (based in Amman, Jordan)
Nicole Harris, 404-735-0871 nharris@care.org