Protection and lifesaving assistance to individuals exposed to mayor vulnerabilities in Venezuelan border areas with Colombia (Apure, Zulia y Táchira) due to the post-electoral context.

Venezuela is suffering from a prolonged and dire socioeconomic crisis with episodes of hyperinflation, sectorial sanctions, and localized armed confrontations that exacerbated due to political turmoil and humanitarian  emergency. Following the presidential election on July 28, 2024, the post-electoral situation has intensified existing challenges. In 2023 (Encovi), 82.8% of the population life in poverty, 51.9% in severe poverty with limited access to  housing, social services, social protection, education, and jobs. In addition, 89% of the households are reported to be food insecure, unable to cover the cost of  the food basket. The unemployment rate in 2022 was 40.3% (according to the IDB).     

The protracted crisis heightened by the post-electoral situation and combined  with the impact of migration continually exposes Venezuelans to stressors that directly affect their mental health. A recent survey conducted by the Psychology Department of the UCAB University, concluded that surveyed people experience stress mostly due to economic problems (47%) followed by health concerns (23%). Over 37% of people reported experiencing diffuse collective fear, mostly related to fear of expressing their opinions (41%).  

Direct Beneficiaries SDC: a total of 3,858 people.  

Indirect  SDC  Beneficiares:  12,124 people.  

Children, including girls and boys, Young people and adults (inclufing women, pregnant women, the elderly) in need of protection and other vulnerable populations.  

Outcome 1: Improved protection of victims or at-risk groups from  violence,  exploitation, and abuse through the establishment of Child-Friendly Spaces, the  provision of Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS), and strengthened referral and case management mechanisms in Zulia, Tachira and Apure. 

Outcome 2: Vulnerable populations in Zulia, Tachira and Apure, particularly those affected by the recent electoral and political context,  receive  timely  emergency immediate lifesaving assistance through Temporary Collective Centers multisectoral services (excluding protection assistance included in outcome 1).    

Expected results:  

• Crisis-affected populations on the move staying at the Temporary Collective Centers receive quality mental health and psychosocial support services in a timely manner (477 individuals).  
• Enhanced Protection and Well-being for Children, Adolescents, Women and people in mobility through Friendly Spaces and Mobile Points  
• 3’858 of individuals assisted with other Multisectoral assistance 
•  Vulnerable individuals at Temporary Collective Centers have equitable access to protection assistance and dignified services during their transit.  
• 4 of temporary Collective Centers improvements to achieve minimum protection standards 

Results from previous phases:   N/A