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[[File:Amazonas Venezuela.jpg|thumb|Orinoco river, Estado Amazonas.]]

[[File:Amazonas Venezuela.jpg|thumb|Orinoco river, Estado Amazonas.]]

*Area: 912,050 sq. km. (352,143 sq. mi.); slightly more than twice the size of California.

*Area: 912,050 sq. km. (352,143 sq. mi.); slightly more than twice the size of California.

*Cities: Capital--Caracas (metro. area pop. 3.2 million). Other major cities--Maracaibo, Valencia, Barquisimeto, Maracay, Merida, Ciudad Bolivar.

*Cities: Capital—Caracas (metro. area pop. 3.2 million). Other major cities—Maracaibo, Valencia, Barquisimeto, Maracay, Merida, Ciudad Bolivar.

*Terrain: Andes Mountains and Maracaibo Lowlands in northwest; central plains; Guiana Highlands in southeast.

*Terrain: Andes Mountains and Maracaibo Lowlands in northwest; central plains; Guiana Highlands in southeast.

*Climate: Varies from tropical to temperate, depending on elevation.

*Climate: Varies from tropical to temperate, depending on elevation.

*Population (December 2009 est.): 28,385,627.

*Population (December 2009 est.): 28,385,627.

*Annual population growth: 1.6%.

*Annual population growth: 1.6%.

*Education: Years compulsory--9. Literacy--95%.

*Education: Years compulsory—9. Literacy—95%.

*Ethnic groups: Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Arab, German, African, Amerindian.

*Ethnic groups: Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Arab, German, African, Amerindian.

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A fact of foremost importance in the new Constitution of 1999 is that of recognizing the existence of the indigenous peoples with all their rights to their ecologies, their culture, cosmology, their land, their traditional knowledge, medicine, and their languages. <ref>[http://www.centrelink.org/SanchezEnglish.html A New Reality for Venezuela's Indigenous Peoples.]</ref>

A fact of foremost importance in the new Constitution of 1999 is that of recognizing the existence of the indigenous peoples with all their rights to their ecologies, their culture, cosmology, their land, their traditional knowledge, medicine, and their languages.<ref>[http://www.centrelink.org/SanchezEnglish.html A New Reality for Venezuela's Indigenous Peoples.]</ref>

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The National Assembly is unicameral, consisting solely of the Chamber of Deputies. Deputies serve five-year terms, and may be re-elected for a maximum of two additional terms. These legislative agents are elected by a combination of party list and single member constituencies. When the Congress is not in session, a delegated committee acts on matters relating to the executive and in oversight functions. In December 2005 pro-government parties took all 167 seats in the National Assembly after opposition parties boycotted the election over concerns with electoral conditions.

The National Assembly is unicameral, consisting solely of the Chamber of Deputies. Deputies serve five-year terms, and may be re-elected for a maximum of two additional terms. These legislative agents are elected by a combination of party list and single member constituencies. When the Congress is not in session, a delegated committee acts on matters relating to the executive and in oversight functions. In December 2005 pro-government parties took all 167 seats in the National Assembly after opposition parties boycotted the election over concerns with electoral conditions.

The Constitution designates three additional branches of the federal government--the judicial, citizen, and electoral branches.

The Constitution designates three additional branches of the federal government—the judicial, citizen, and electoral branches.

The judicial branch is headed by the Supreme Tribunal of Justice (TSJ), which may meet either in specialized chambers (of which there are six) or in plenary session. The justices are appointed by the National Assembly and serve 12-year terms. Under the 1999 Constitution, the Supreme Tribunal of Justice is composed of 20 justices. The 1999 Constitution was amended in 2004, and the total number of justices was expanded by 12 to a total of 32. In December 2004, the National Assembly selected new judges to fill the expansion. The judicial branch also consists of lower courts, including district courts, municipal courts, and courts of first instance.  

The judicial branch is headed by the Supreme Tribunal of Justice (TSJ), which may meet either in specialized chambers (of which there are six) or in plenary session. The justices are appointed by the National Assembly and serve 12-year terms. Under the 1999 Constitution, the Supreme Tribunal of Justice is composed of 20 justices. The 1999 Constitution was amended in 2004, and the total number of justices was expanded by 12 to a total of 32. In December 2004, the National Assembly selected new judges to fill the expansion. The judicial branch also consists of lower courts, including district courts, municipal courts, and courts of first instance.  

The citizens branch consists of three components--the attorney general ("fiscal general"), the "defender of the people" or ombudsman, and the comptroller general. The holders of these offices, in addition to fulfilling their specific functions, also act collectively as the "Republican Moral Council" to challenge before the Supreme Tribunal of Justice actions they believe are illegal, particularly those which violate the Constitution. The holders of the "citizen power" offices are selected for terms of seven years by the National Assembly.

The citizens branch consists of three components—the attorney general ("fiscal general"), the "defender of the people" or ombudsman, and the comptroller general. The holders of these offices, in addition to fulfilling their specific functions, also act collectively as the "Republican Moral Council" to challenge before the Supreme Tribunal of Justice actions they believe are illegal, particularly those which violate the Constitution. The holders of the "citizen power" offices are selected for terms of seven years by the National Assembly.

The "Electoral Power," otherwise known as the National Electoral Council (Consejo Nacional Electoral or CNE), is responsible for organizing elections at all levels. Its five members are also elected to seven-year terms by the National Assembly. In the event of a hung vote in the National Assembly, the Supreme Tribunal of Justice can be called on to appoint the members.

The "Electoral Power," otherwise known as the National Electoral Council (Consejo Nacional Electoral or CNE), is responsible for organizing elections at all levels. Its five members are also elected to seven-year terms by the National Assembly. In the event of a hung vote in the National Assembly, the Supreme Tribunal of Justice can be called on to appoint the members.

===Principal Government Officials===

===Principal Government Officials===

*President--Nicolás Maduro

*President—Nicolás Maduro

*Vice President--Jorge Rodriguez Gómez

*Vice President—Jorge Rodriguez Gómez

*Minister of Foreign Affairs--José Elías Jaua Milano

*Minister of Foreign Affairs—José Elías Jaua Milano

*Minister of Defense-General Gustavo Reyes Rangel Briceño

*Minister of Defense-General Gustavo Reyes Rangel Briceño

*Ambassador to the United States--Bernardo Alvarez Herrera

*Ambassador to the United States—Bernardo Alvarez Herrera

*Ambassador to the Organization of American States--Jorge Valero Briceño  

*Ambassador to the Organization of American States—Jorge Valero Briceño  

*Ambassador to the United Nations--Francisco Arias Cardenas

*Ambassador to the United Nations—Francisco Arias Cardenas

===Political parties===

===Political parties===

Since 2005, President Chávez has deepened relations with Iran, a state sponsor of terrorism, by signing multiple economic and social accords and publicly supporting Iran's controversial nuclear program. President Chávez has also reached out to the anti-American and anti-West regimes of [[North Korea]], [[Belarus]] and [[Syria]]. The Venezuelans have also embarked on a worldwide effort to increase their presence in embassies overseas in Africa and Asia.  

Since 2005, President Chávez has deepened relations with Iran, a state sponsor of terrorism, by signing multiple economic and social accords and publicly supporting Iran's controversial nuclear program. President Chávez has also reached out to the anti-American and anti-West regimes of [[North Korea]], [[Belarus]] and [[Syria]]. The Venezuelans have also embarked on a worldwide effort to increase their presence in embassies overseas in Africa and Asia.  

President Chávez has also launched a major renovation of the Venezuelan Armed Forces by purchasing new advanced weaponry. In 2005-06, Venezuela purchased 100,000 AK-103 rifles from Russia and signed an agreement to construct a rifle and ammunition complex . Venezuela has also purchased dozens of Russian attack and transport helicopters, and has begun receiving 24 Russian Sukhoi Su-30MK 2-seat fighters. Venezuela has longstanding border disputes with Colombia-aggravated most recently by the capture of a Colombian insurgent leader inside Venezuela--and Guyana, but seeks in general to resolve them peacefully. Bilateral commissions have been established by Venezuela and Colombia to address a range of pending issues, including resolution of the maritime boundary in the Gulf of Venezuela. Relations with Guyana are complicated by Venezuela's claim to roughly three-quarters of Guyana's territory. Since 1987, the two countries have held exchanges on the boundary under the "good offices" of the United Nations.

President Chávez has also launched a major renovation of the Venezuelan Armed Forces by purchasing new advanced weaponry. In 2005-06, Venezuela purchased 100,000 AK-103 rifles from Russia and signed an agreement to construct a rifle and ammunition complex . Venezuela has also purchased dozens of Russian attack and transport helicopters, and has begun receiving 24 Russian Sukhoi Su-30MK 2-seat fighters. Venezuela has longstanding border disputes with Colombia-aggravated most recently by the capture of a Colombian insurgent leader inside Venezuela—and Guyana, but seeks in general to resolve them peacefully. Bilateral commissions have been established by Venezuela and Colombia to address a range of pending issues, including resolution of the maritime boundary in the Gulf of Venezuela. Relations with Guyana are complicated by Venezuela's claim to roughly three-quarters of Guyana's territory. Since 1987, the two countries have held exchanges on the boundary under the "good offices" of the United Nations.

 

===Relations with the United States===

===Relations with the United States===

Chavez has shown a marked intolerance for fundamental [[human rights]] <ref>[http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,276356,00.html Venezuelan Opposition Leader Demands Hugo Chavez Free Jailed Protesters], ''Associated Press'', May 30, 2007.</ref> and is accused of funding insurgent activity outside of Venezuela's borders.  Chavez has much control of oil revenues from Venezuela's state owned, state run oil monopoly.  While Chavez in public criticizes [[capitalism]], he has sought to manipulate oil prices above $60 per barrel for Venezuela's largest customer, the [[United States]].

Chavez has shown a marked intolerance for fundamental [[human rights]] <ref>[http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,276356,00.html Venezuelan Opposition Leader Demands Hugo Chavez Free Jailed Protesters], ''Associated Press'', May 30, 2007.</ref> and is accused of funding insurgent activity outside of Venezuela's borders.  Chavez has much control of oil revenues from Venezuela's state owned, state run oil monopoly.  While Chavez in public criticizes [[capitalism]], he has sought to manipulate oil prices above $60 per barrel for Venezuela's largest customer, the [[United States]].

The U.S. State Department's Report on Global [[Antisemitism]] also recently cited Venezuela for statements by "senior government officials supporting Iraq's [[Saddam Hussein]] and Islamic [[extremist]] movements" which "raised tensions and intimidated the country's Jewish community. There were several reports of anti-Semitic [[graffiti]] at [[Synagogue|synagogues]] in Caracas and two reported threatening phone calls made to Jewish community centers. In August, President Chavez cautioned citizens against following the lead of Jewish citizens in the effort to overturn his referendum victory. Anti-Semitic leaflets also were available to the public in an Interior and Justice Ministry office waiting room." <ref>[http://www.state.gov/g/drl/rls/40258.htm Report on Global Anti-Semitism] U. S. Department of State, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor, January 5, 2005. </ref>

The U.S. State Department's Report on Global [[Antisemitism]] also recently cited Venezuela for statements by "senior government officials supporting Iraq's [[Saddam Hussein]] and Islamic [[extremist]] movements" which "raised tensions and intimidated the country's Jewish community. There were several reports of anti-Semitic [[graffiti]] at [[synagogue]]s in Caracas and two reported threatening phone calls made to Jewish community centers. In August, President Chavez cautioned citizens against following the lead of Jewish citizens in the effort to overturn his referendum victory. Anti-Semitic leaflets also were available to the public in an Interior and Justice Ministry office waiting room." <ref>[http://www.state.gov/g/drl/rls/40258.htm Report on Global Anti-Semitism] U. S. Department of State, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor, January 5, 2005.</ref>

 

==Economy==

==Economy==

Agriculture accounts for approximately 3% of GDP, 10% of the labor force, and at least one-fourth of Venezuela's land area. Venezuela exports rice, cigarettes, fish, tropical fruits, coffee, cocoa, and manufactured products. The country is not self-sufficient in most areas of agriculture. Venezuela imports about two-thirds of its food needs. Through November 2006, U.S. firms exported $412 million worth of agricultural products, including wheat, corn, soybeans, soybean meal, cotton, animal fats, vegetable oils, and other items to make Venezuela one of the top two U.S. markets in South America. The United States supplies roughly one-quarter of Venezuela's food imports.

Agriculture accounts for approximately 3% of GDP, 10% of the labor force, and at least one-fourth of Venezuela's land area. Venezuela exports rice, cigarettes, fish, tropical fruits, coffee, cocoa, and manufactured products. The country is not self-sufficient in most areas of agriculture. Venezuela imports about two-thirds of its food needs. Through November 2006, U.S. firms exported $412 million worth of agricultural products, including wheat, corn, soybeans, soybean meal, cotton, animal fats, vegetable oils, and other items to make Venezuela one of the top two U.S. markets in South America. The United States supplies roughly one-quarter of Venezuela's food imports.

===Labor and Infrastructure===  

===Labor and Infrastructure===

Official unemployment statistics registered 8.9% unemployment in December 2006. Unofficial estimates are significantly higher. The public sector employs about 13% of the work force, while less than 1% work in the capital-intensive oil industry. About 18% of the labor force is unionized, and unions are particularly strong in the petroleum and public sectors. The "informal" sector accounts for some 45% of the work force, or 5.5 million people.

Official unemployment statistics registered 8.9% unemployment in December 2006. Unofficial estimates are significantly higher. The public sector employs about 13% of the work force, while less than 1% work in the capital-intensive oil industry. About 18% of the labor force is unionized, and unions are particularly strong in the petroleum and public sectors. The "informal" sector accounts for some 45% of the work force, or 5.5 million people.

Telesur is an international TV channel funded by the governments of Venezuela, Cuba, Brazil and Argentina. Its headquarters is located in Caracas. Its missions are to offer a new vision of Latin America (according to the viewpoint of those governments) to the rest of the world and to counteract the influence of US media in the American continent.  

Telesur is an international TV channel funded by the governments of Venezuela, Cuba, Brazil and Argentina. Its headquarters is located in Caracas. Its missions are to offer a new vision of Latin America (according to the viewpoint of those governments) to the rest of the world and to counteract the influence of US media in the American continent.  

In 2004 the Venezuelan National Assembly passed the Law of Social Responsibility in Radio and Television. This law establishes ambiguous guidelines regulating broadcasting content. It further requires the stations to transmit the government’s educational, informative, or public safety broadcasts for up to 60 minutes a week. Finally, the law requires stations to transmit in full Chavez’s speeches and other political messages, some of which last up to five hours. <ref>[http://www.naplesnews.com/news/2007/jul/07/guest_commentary_we_must_help_venezuela_because_fr/ Because Freedom Matters], By U.S. Rep. Connie Mack IV and Blanquita Cullm, ''Naples Daily News'', July 7, 2007.</ref>

In 2004 the Venezuelan National Assembly passed the Law of Social Responsibility in Radio and Television. This law establishes ambiguous guidelines regulating broadcasting content. It further requires the stations to transmit the government’s educational, informative, or public safety broadcasts for up to 60 minutes a week. Finally, the law requires stations to transmit in full Chavez’s speeches and other political messages, some of which last up to five hours.<ref>[http://www.naplesnews.com/news/2007/jul/07/guest_commentary_we_must_help_venezuela_because_fr/ Because Freedom Matters], By U.S. Rep. Connie Mack IV and Blanquita Cullm, ''Naples Daily News'', July 7, 2007.</ref>

In today’s Venezuela, independent journalists are sometimes arrested and frequently fined and harassed in an effort to intimidate those who speak against the Chavez regime.

In today’s Venezuela, independent journalists are sometimes arrested and frequently fined and harassed in an effort to intimidate those who speak against the Chavez regime.

==History==

==History==

[[Image:Trujillo Venezuela.jpg|thumb|240px|Trujillo]]

[[Image:Trujillo Venezuela.jpg|thumb|240px|Trujillo]]

At the time of Spanish discovery, the indigenous in Venezuela were mainly agriculturists and hunters living in groups along the coast, the Andean mountain range, and the Orinoco River. The first permanent Spanish settlement in South America--Nuevo Toledo--was established in Venezuela in 1522. Venezuela was a relatively neglected colony in the 1500s and 1600s as the Spaniards focused on extracting gold and silver from other areas of the Americas.

At the time of Spanish discovery, the indigenous in Venezuela were mainly agriculturists and hunters living in groups along the coast, the Andean mountain range, and the Orinoco River. The first permanent Spanish settlement in South America—Nuevo Toledo—was established in Venezuela in 1522. Venezuela was a relatively neglected colony in the 1500s and 1600s as the Spaniards focused on extracting gold and silver from other areas of the Americas.

Toward the end of the 18th century, the Venezuelans began to grow restive under colonial control. In 1821, after several unsuccessful uprisings, the country succeeded in achieving independence from Spain, under the leadership of its most famous son, Simon Bolivar. Venezuela, along with what are now Colombia, Panama, and Ecuador, was part of the Republic of Gran Colombia until 1830, when Venezuela separated and became a separate sovereign country.

Toward the end of the 18th century, the Venezuelans began to grow restive under colonial control. In 1821, after several unsuccessful uprisings, the country succeeded in achieving independence from Spain, under the leadership of its most famous son, Simon Bolivar. Venezuela, along with what are now Colombia, Panama, and Ecuador, was part of the Republic of Gran Colombia until 1830, when Venezuela separated and became a separate sovereign country.

Much of Venezuela's 19th-century history was characterized by periods of political instability, dictatorial rule, and revolutionary turbulence. The first half of the 20th century was marked by periods of authoritarianism--including dictatorships from 1908-35 and from 1950-58. In addition, the Venezuelan economy shifted after the first World War from a primarily agricultural orientation to an economy centered on petroleum production and export.

Much of Venezuela's 19th-century history was characterized by periods of political instability, dictatorial rule, and revolutionary turbulence. The first half of the 20th century was marked by periods of authoritarianism—including dictatorships from 1908–35 and from 1950-58. In addition, the Venezuelan economy shifted after the first World War from a primarily agricultural orientation to an economy centered on petroleum production and export.

Since the overthrow of Gen. Marcos Perez Jimenez in 1958 and the military's withdrawal from direct involvement in national politics, Venezuela has enjoyed an unbroken tradition of civilian democratic rule. This earned Venezuela a reputation as one of the more stable democracies in Latin America. Until the 1998 elections, the Democratic Action (AD) and the Christian Democratic (COPEI) parties dominated the political environment at both the state and federal level.  

Since the overthrow of Gen. Marcos Perez Jimenez in 1958 and the military's withdrawal from direct involvement in national politics, Venezuela has enjoyed an unbroken tradition of civilian democratic rule. This earned Venezuela a reputation as one of the more stable democracies in Latin America. Until the 1998 elections, the Democratic Action (AD) and the Christian Democratic (COPEI) parties dominated the political environment at both the state and federal level.  

Deep popular dissatisfaction with the traditional political parties, income disparities, and economic difficulties were some of the major frustrations expressed by Venezuelans following Perez's impeachment. In December 1998, Hugo Chavez Frias won the presidency on a campaign for broad reform, constitutional change, and a crackdown on corruption.

Deep popular dissatisfaction with the traditional political parties, income disparities, and economic difficulties were some of the major frustrations expressed by Venezuelans following Perez's impeachment. In December 1998, Hugo Chavez Frias won the presidency on a campaign for broad reform, constitutional change, and a crackdown on corruption.

===Constitutional Reforms===  

===Constitutional Reforms===

Current President Hugo Chavez was elected in 1998 on a platform that called for the creation of a National Constituent Assembly in order to write a new constitution for Venezuela. Chavez's argument that the existing political system had become isolated from the people won broad acceptance, particularly among Venezuela's poorest classes, who had seen a significant decline in their living standards over the previous decade and a half. The National Constituent Assembly (ANC), consisting of 131 elected individuals, convened in August 1999 to begin rewriting the Constitution. In free elections, voters gave all but six seats to persons associated with the Chavez movement. Venezuelans approved the ANC's draft in a national referendum on December 15, 1999.

Current President Hugo Chavez was elected in 1998 on a platform that called for the creation of a National Constituent Assembly in order to write a new constitution for Venezuela. Chavez's argument that the existing political system had become isolated from the people won broad acceptance, particularly among Venezuela's poorest classes, who had seen a significant decline in their living standards over the previous decade and a half. The National Constituent Assembly (ANC), consisting of 131 elected individuals, convened in August 1999 to begin rewriting the Constitution. In free elections, voters gave all but six seats to persons associated with the Chavez movement. Venezuelans approved the ANC's draft in a national referendum on December 15, 1999.

===Political Turmoil===  

===Political Turmoil===

[[File:Logo_LS_Venezuela_Socialism.jpg|left|230px]]

[[File:Logo_LS_Venezuela_Socialism.jpg|left|230px]]

In July 2000, following a long and controversial process, voters re-elected President Hugo Chavez of the Fifth Republic Movement (MVR) in generally free and fair national and local elections. The MVR and pro-Chavez Movimiento a Socialismo (MAS) party won 92 seats in the 165-member legislature. Subsequent party splits reduced the pro-Chavez members to 84 seats. In April 2002, the country experienced a temporary alteration of constitutional order. When an estimated 400,000 to 600,000 persons participated in a march in downtown Caracas to demand President Chavez' resignation, gunfire broke out, resulting in as many as 18 deaths and more than 100 injuries on both sides. Military officers took President Chavez into custody, and business leader Pedro Carmona swore himself in as interim President. On April 14, military troops loyal to Chavez returned him to power. A national reconciliation process, with participation by the Organization of American States, the UN Development Program, and the Carter Center, was unsuccessful in stopping further conflict. Opposition leaders called a national work stoppage on December 2, 2002. Strikers protested the government and called for the resignation of President Chavez. The oil sector joined other sectors of the economy and effectively shut down all economic activity for a month. The OAS Permanent Council passed Resolution 833 on December 16, 2002, calling for a "constitutional, democratic, peaceful, and electoral solution" to the crisis in Venezuela. The strike formally ended in February 2003 as political opponents of Chavez sought a recall referendum to revoke the mandate of the president.

In July 2000, following a long and controversial process, voters re-elected President Hugo Chavez of the Fifth Republic Movement (MVR) in generally free and fair national and local elections. The MVR and pro-Chavez Movimiento a Socialismo (MAS) party won 92 seats in the 165-member legislature. Subsequent party splits reduced the pro-Chavez members to 84 seats. In April 2002, the country experienced a temporary alteration of constitutional order. When an estimated 400,000 to 600,000 persons participated in a march in downtown Caracas to demand President Chavez' resignation, gunfire broke out, resulting in as many as 18 deaths and more than 100 injuries on both sides. Military officers took President Chavez into custody, and business leader Pedro Carmona swore himself in as interim President. On April 14, military troops loyal to Chavez returned him to power. A national reconciliation process, with participation by the Organization of American States, the UN Development Program, and the Carter Center, was unsuccessful in stopping further conflict. Opposition leaders called a national work stoppage on December 2, 2002. Strikers protested the government and called for the resignation of President Chavez. The oil sector joined other sectors of the economy and effectively shut down all economic activity for a month. The OAS Permanent Council passed Resolution 833 on December 16, 2002, calling for a "constitutional, democratic, peaceful, and electoral solution" to the crisis in Venezuela. The strike formally ended in February 2003 as political opponents of Chavez sought a recall referendum to revoke the mandate of the president.

===The Referendum Process===  

===The Referendum Process===

In September 2003, after an impasse in the National Assembly, the Supreme Court named a new board of directors for the National Electoral Council (CNE). After months of intense deliberations that included two conflicting signature drives overseen by the CNE, political riots over the government's disqualification of questionable signatures, and the intervention of international electoral observers, the CNE certified the opposition's results and set the date of the recall referendum for August 15, 2004. According to the CNE, President Chavez won 59% of the vote. His opponents immediately contested that the results of the referendum were marked by electoral fraud. However, international electoral observation missions carried out by the Organization of American States and the Carter Center found no indication of systemic fraud.

In September 2003, after an impasse in the National Assembly, the Supreme Court named a new board of directors for the National Electoral Council (CNE). After months of intense deliberations that included two conflicting signature drives overseen by the CNE, political riots over the government's disqualification of questionable signatures, and the intervention of international electoral observers, the CNE certified the opposition's results and set the date of the recall referendum for August 15, 2004. According to the CNE, President Chavez won 59% of the vote. His opponents immediately contested that the results of the referendum were marked by electoral fraud. However, international electoral observation missions carried out by the Organization of American States and the Carter Center found no indication of systemic fraud.

===From Referendum To Elections===  

===From Referendum To Elections===

In the wake of the referendum victory, Pro-Chávez candidates continued to sweep other electoral contests. Chávez supporters won 20 out of the total 22 state governor positions up for election in October 2004 (there are currently two opposition governors). Chavez supporters also won a majority of the seats in the August 2005 municipal council (parroquias) elections. Pro-Chávez parties won all 167 seats in the December 2005 National Assembly elections, after most opposition candidates withdrew one week before the elections over voter secrecy concerns. The final reports of the EU and OAS observer missions to the 2005 legislative elections, which were marked by record-high abstention, noted high levels of distrust in electoral institutions. The reports made specific recommendations to increase transparency and help voters regain the confidence necessary for participation. Most of the recommendations were not implemented. As a signatory of the Inter-American Democratic Charter, Venezuela has an obligation to hold "periodic, free, and fair elections based on secret balloting and universal suffrage."

In the wake of the referendum victory, Pro-Chávez candidates continued to sweep other electoral contests. Chávez supporters won 20 out of the total 22 state governor positions up for election in October 2004 (there are currently two opposition governors). Chavez supporters also won a majority of the seats in the August 2005 municipal council (parroquias) elections. Pro-Chávez parties won all 167 seats in the December 2005 National Assembly elections, after most opposition candidates withdrew one week before the elections over voter secrecy concerns. The final reports of the EU and OAS observer missions to the 2005 legislative elections, which were marked by record-high abstention, noted high levels of distrust in electoral institutions. The reports made specific recommendations to increase transparency and help voters regain the confidence necessary for participation. Most of the recommendations were not implemented. As a signatory of the Inter-American Democratic Charter, Venezuela has an obligation to hold "periodic, free, and fair elections based on secret balloting and universal suffrage."

===A New Term and New Administration===  

===A New Term and New Administration===

[[File:Manuel Rosales Venezuela.jpg|thumb|Manuel Rosales.]]

[[File:Manuel Rosales Venezuela.jpg|thumb|Manuel Rosales.]]

President Chávez was re-elected by an overwhelming majority (63%) in the December 3, 2006, presidential elections. He defeated Zulia Governor Manuel Rosales, whose Un Nuevo Tiempo (UNT) party formed an alliance with several key opposition parties. Though international observers found no evidence of fraud on election day, they did note concerns over abuse of government resources used to support the Chávez campaign, voter intimidation tactics, and manipulation of the electoral registry.  

President Chávez was re-elected by an overwhelming majority (63%) in the December 3, 2006, presidential elections. He defeated Zulia Governor Manuel Rosales, whose Un Nuevo Tiempo (UNT) party formed an alliance with several key opposition parties. Though international observers found no evidence of fraud on election day, they did note concerns over abuse of government resources used to support the Chávez campaign, voter intimidation tactics, and manipulation of the electoral registry.  

=== Constitutional referendum 2007 ===

=== Constitutional referendum 2007 ===

On August 15, President Chávez proposed a package of 33 articles to reform the 1999 Constitution. On 11th September the National Assembly enlarged the amount of amendments with other 36 articles, increasing in 69 the number of articles to be voted in the referendum. Finally the National Assembly passed the reform on 2nd November.

On August 15, President Chávez proposed a package of 33 articles to reform the 1999 Constitution. On 11 September the National Assembly enlarged the amount of amendments with other 36 articles, increasing in 69 the number of articles to be voted in the referendum. Finally the National Assembly passed the reform on 2 November.

<ref>[http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/7076076.stm  Venezuela assembly passes reforms], ''BBC News'', November 2, 2007. Retrieved on December 13, 2007.</ref>.

.<ref>[http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/7076076.stm  Venezuela assembly passes reforms], ''BBC News'', November 2, 2007. Retrieved on December 13, 2007.</ref>  

The proposals were divided into two blocks: block "A" and block "B". Some of the amendments are:

The proposals were divided into two blocks: block "A" and block "B". Some of the amendments are:

* The presidential term will be increased from six to seven years.

* The presidential term will be increased from six to seven years.

* Five types of property are proposed: public, social, collective, mixed, and private property. The Venezuelan State is to govern four of these new five types of property, as it intends to play a role as owner, partner, and financier.

* Five types of property are proposed: public, social, collective, mixed, and private property. The Venezuelan State is to govern four of these new five types of property, as it intends to play a role as owner, partner, and financier.

<ref>[http://buscador.eluniversal.com/2007/10/01/en_eco_art_venezuelan-state-to_01A1086237.shtml  Venezuelan state to govern four types of property], ''El Universal'', October 1, 2007. Retrieved on December 13, 2007.</ref>.

.<ref>[http://buscador.eluniversal.com/2007/10/01/en_eco_art_venezuelan-state-to_01A1086237.shtml  Venezuelan state to govern four types of property], ''El Universal'', October 1, 2007. Retrieved on December 13, 2007.</ref>

* Creation of federal territories ruled by vice presidents. The heads of federal territories will be appointed by the President of Venezuela.  

* Creation of federal territories ruled by vice presidents. The heads of federal territories will be appointed by the President of Venezuela.  

* Autonomy of the central bank will be concluded.

* Autonomy of the central bank will be concluded.

The constitutional reform was rejected by the opposition to considered it as an attempt of President Chávez to rule the country indefinitely and to create a socialist economy. Marches against the reform were done in many parts of Venezuela. A major role in the protests was played by university students.  

The constitutional reform was rejected by the opposition to considered it as an attempt of President Chávez to rule the country indefinitely and to create a socialist economy. Marches against the reform were done in many parts of Venezuela. A major role in the protests was played by university students.  

<ref>[http://www.economist.com/displayStory.cfm?story_id=10136480  Challenging Chávez-for-life, A new kind of opposition], ''The Economist'', November 15, 2007. Retrieved on December 13, 2007.</ref>. Some supporters of Mr. Chávez such as the allied party ''PODEMOS'', ''Raúl Baduel'' (his ex- Defense Minister) and ''Marisabel Rodríguez'' (his ex-wife) rejected the reform and called the electors to vote against the reform.  

.<ref>[http://www.economist.com/displayStory.cfm?story_id=10136480  Challenging Chávez-for-life, A new kind of opposition], ''The Economist'', November 15, 2007. Retrieved on December 13, 2007.</ref> Some supporters of Mr. Chávez such as the allied party ''PODEMOS'', ''Raúl Baduel'' (his ex- Defense Minister) and ''Marisabel Rodríguez'' (his ex-wife) rejected the reform and called the electors to vote against the reform.  

<ref>[http://buscador.eluniversal.com/2007/11/05/en_refco_art_former-defense-minis_05A1174277.shtml  Former Defense Minister rejects constitutional reform], ''El Universal'', November 5, 2007. Retrieved on December 13, 2007.</ref>.

.<ref>[http://buscador.eluniversal.com/2007/11/05/en_refco_art_former-defense-minis_05A1174277.shtml  Former Defense Minister rejects constitutional reform], ''El Universal'', November 5, 2007. Retrieved on December 13, 2007.</ref>

<ref>[http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/us_and_americas/article2983752.ece  Ex-wife damns Hugo Chavez ‘coup’], ''The Sunday Times'', December 2, 2007. Retrieved on December 13, 2007.</ref>.

.<ref>[http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/us_and_americas/article2983752.ece  Ex-wife damns Hugo Chavez ‘coup’], ''The Sunday Times'', December 2, 2007. Retrieved on December 13, 2007.</ref>  

On 2nd December 50 % of electors voted against the constitutional reform while 49 % of electors voted in favor. <ref>[http://buscador.eluniversal.com/2007/12/03/en_refco_art_venezuelans-said-no_03A1240957.shtml    Venezuelans said “no” to Chávez’s planned reform], ''El Universal'', December 3, 2007. Retrieved on December 13, 2007.</ref>. The reform was rejected in seven important Venezuelan states, based on the number of voters, namely Zulia, Miranda, Carabobo, Lara, Anzoátegui, and the Capital District (Caracas).  

On 2 December 50% of electors voted against the constitutional reform while 49% of electors voted in favor.<ref>[http://buscador.eluniversal.com/2007/12/03/en_refco_art_venezuelans-said-no_03A1240957.shtml    Venezuelans said “no” to Chávez’s planned reform], ''El Universal'', December 3, 2007. Retrieved on December 13, 2007.</ref> The reform was rejected in seven important Venezuelan states, based on the number of voters, namely Zulia, Miranda, Carabobo, Lara, Anzoátegui, and the Capital District (Caracas).  

<ref>[http://buscador.eluniversal.com/2007/12/04/en_refco_art_states-of-zulia,-mir_04A1243797.shtml    States of Zulia, Miranda and Táchira played a decisive role], ''El Universal'', December 4, 2007. Retrieved on December 13, 2007.</ref>. It is the first time since Chávez won power in 1998 that the current government lost at the polls.  

.<ref>[http://buscador.eluniversal.com/2007/12/04/en_refco_art_states-of-zulia,-mir_04A1243797.shtml    States of Zulia, Miranda and Táchira played a decisive role], ''El Universal'', December 4, 2007. Retrieved on December 13, 2007.</ref> It is the first time since Chávez won power in 1998 that the current government lost at the polls.  

Abstention, which was more than 44 %, is considered an important factor of the government defeat. It is thought many supporters of Chávez refrained from voting, because they were not in agreement with the reform.  

Abstention, which was more than 44%, is considered an important factor of the government defeat. It is thought many supporters of Chávez refrained from voting, because they were not in agreement with the reform.  

<ref>[http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1690507,00.html?imw=Y    Why Venezuelans Turned on Chavez], By Gould, Jens Erik, ''Time'', December 3, 2007. Retrieved on December 13, 2007.</ref>.

.<ref>[http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1690507,00.html?imw=Y    Why Venezuelans Turned on Chavez], By Gould, Jens Erik, ''Time'', December 3, 2007. Retrieved on December 13, 2007.</ref>

President Chávez recognized the results, but he announced to the nation that another referendum to modify the constitution will be proposed again in the future. The previous statement was said by the Venezuelan president again on December 5.  

President Chávez recognized the results, but he announced to the nation that another referendum to modify the constitution will be proposed again in the future. The previous statement was said by the Venezuelan president again on December 5.  

<ref>[http://english.eluniversal.com/2007/12/05/en_refco_art_chavez-announces-sec_05A1247117.shtml  Chávez launches second offensive to pass reform to the Constitution], ''El Universal'', December 6, 2007. Retrieved on December 13, 2007.</ref>. The National Assembly decided to join the presidential efforts to keep the proposal alive. <ref>[http://english.eluniversal.com/2007/12/05/en_refco_art_parliament-insists-o_05A1245643.shtml    Parliament insists on advancing Chávez’s defeated reform], ''El Universal'', December 5, 2007. Retrieved on December 13, 2007.</ref>.

.<ref>[http://english.eluniversal.com/2007/12/05/en_refco_art_chavez-announces-sec_05A1247117.shtml  Chávez launches second offensive to pass reform to the Constitution], ''El Universal'', December 6, 2007. Retrieved on December 13, 2007.</ref> The National Assembly decided to join the presidential efforts to keep the proposal alive.<ref>[http://english.eluniversal.com/2007/12/05/en_refco_art_parliament-insists-o_05A1245643.shtml    Parliament insists on advancing Chávez’s defeated reform], ''El Universal'', December 5, 2007. Retrieved on December 13, 2007.</ref>

==Famous Venezuelans==

==Famous Venezuelans==