Direct democracy in Venezuela: Community empowerment and citizen participation

The President of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, Nicolás Maduro, highlighted this Wednesday the fundamental role of direct democracy in community empowerment. Through his Telegram channel, the president emphasized that these sociopolitical mechanisms allow for the strengthening and «beautification» of the popular sectors, during his visit to the community of Mesuca, in Petare, Miranda state.

He affirmed that «the people are the protagonists in the current construction of the country,» thanks to a direct, permanent, and true democracy. He emphasized that this model of citizen participation is based on three fundamental pillars: knowledge, awareness, and organization, key elements for transforming communities.

The Venezuelan head of state affirmed that this political system is highly effective and efficient, as it allows for overcoming obstacles such as intermediaries, distant governments, and bureaucracy. He reaffirmed that direct democracy guarantees that decisions are made by the people’s power, without filters that dilute their impact.

Citizen Participation Mechanisms:

Among the tools that facilitate direct democracy in Venezuela, the president mentioned:

National Popular Consultations

Communes and communal councils

Participation circuits

These structures are designed to subordinate institutions to the will of the people and thus ensure that public policies respond to the real needs of communities.

During his visit to Mesuca, in Petare, President Maduro reiterated his commitment to social inclusion and local development. This historically marginalized area has been the site of urban improvement and citizen participation programs, which demonstrate the achievements.