Analysis
The 2018 presidential election was widely condemned as neither free nor fair, with opposition candidates barred and state control over media, supporting the claim of authoritarian practices. However, Venezuela retains formal institutions such as a legislature and a constitution, indicating remnants of democratic structures, albeit heavily compromised.
Background
Since Hugo Chávez's rise to power, Venezuela has experienced increasing concentration of power in the executive, suppression of dissent, and electoral irregularities. International observers, including the EU and the Carter Center, refused to monitor the 2018 vote, labeling it a sham. Nonetheless, the country still maintains a formal parliamentary system and periodic elections, even if their credibility is questioned.
Verdict summary
Venezuela lacks genuine democratic standards, but some nominal institutions remain.