Venezuela's Transition: From Stabilization to Democracy
Date
July 20, 2026 – 1:30PM
– 2:30PM EDT
Location
Hybrid
Freedom House
1225 I Street NW
Washington, DC 20005
Join Freedom House for a conversation with Venezuelan opposition leader and co-founder of the World Liberty Congress Leopoldo López on the state of Venezuela's transition, the daily realities facing Venezuelans, and the role that the United States and its partners can play in supporting a peaceful, democratic, and sustainable future for the country and its people. Please register only if you plan to attend in person. The event will also be livestreamed on this page for those who are unable to attend. RSVP required for in-person entry.
Background: As Venezuela begins to recover from the devastating earthquake that has compounded an already severe humanitarian and economic crisis, the country also finds itself navigating an unprecedented and uncertain political chapter following the removal of Nicolás Maduro. Attention is increasingly turning to what comes next for the Venezuelan people. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has outlined a three-phase framework—stabilization, recovery, and transition—focused on restoring order, rebuilding economic opportunity and democratic institutions, and ultimately creating the conditions for free and fair elections. As policymakers assess progress and remaining obstacles, key questions remain about how to move from stabilization to a genuine democratic transition. At the same time, ordinary Venezuelans continue to confront significant economic and social challenges, including strained public services, limited economic opportunity, and the lasting effects of years of authoritarian rule and economic decline. The earthquake has not only underscored the importance of resilient institutions capable of responding to immediate humanitarian needs, but also the importance of laying the foundation for long-term recovery.
Speakers Include
- Dasha Burns, Playbook Chief Correspondent and White House Bureau Chief, Politico
- Jamie Fly, Chief Executive Officer, Freedom House
- Leopoldo López, Co-founder of the World Liberty Congress