Canada and the Venezuela crisis

Canada is deeply concerned by the suffering of the Venezuelan people, and remains strongly committed to the promotion and protection of democracy and human rights. In response to attacks on Venezuelans’ democratic and human rights by the regime of Nicolás Maduro, Canada has imposed several rounds of targeted sanctions.

Canada has also downgraded its diplomatic relations with Venezuela in an effort to push for the peaceful restoration of Venezuela’s democracy, and has joined partners in the hemisphere in referring the situation in Venezuela to the International Criminal Court, based on credible allegations that serious international crimes may have been committed.

Since 2017, Canada has allocated over $55 million in humanitarian, stabilization, and development assistance to help respond to the effects of the Venezuela crisis. This includes over $18 million in humanitarian assistance funding to help meet the basic needs of the most vulnerable people affected by this crisis, including in neighbouring countries. Canada also continues to provide support through multilateral programs and through funds managed by the Embassy of Canada to Venezuela.

Statements and declarations

Canada has been instrumental in the passing of several statements and resolutions at the Organization of American States supporting the people of Venezuela in their efforts to achieve political and economic reforms. We have also joined with other countries in the hemisphere to address the critical situation in Venezuela and to explore ways to contribute to the restoration of democracy through peaceful and negotiated means.