Understanding the deep roots of the polarisation in Venezuela : searching appropriate methods to build a culture of peace

Abstract

Considering that nowadays Venezuela is undergoing through a face of transition due to the recent death of the President Hugo Chávez it poses a turn of the political process that started with his raised to the presidency in 1999. During the last 14 years Venezuela has been under a socialist regime, which as revolutionary got its basis on the struggle of classes having a polarisation effect on the population Venezuelans are divided in two groups: one defending the government and the other defending the opposition; it shows a strong confrontation that leads to verbal and physical violence between their members who are not able of holding a normal debate. The polarisation issue is affecting the enjoyment of human rights and the peaceful living in the country. Based on rejection, intolerance and resentment, the rates of violence and discrimination from both sides have risen in time and are getting imprinted in the culture and the institutions; Venezuelan people are getting used to live in a hostile environment. Since governmental administrations have a major influence on people and should manage the public affairs, it is necessary to propose paths of change towards the strengthening of the culture of peace which can allow the restoration of the proper communication between both political groups which might positively impact the governance and enjoyment of human rights.