Venezuela has been subject to sanctions primarily from the US, EU, and UK, aimed at pressuring the government of Nicolás Maduro due to widespread human rights violations, political repression, and undermining democratic institutions. US sanctions are particularly extensive and target key state-owned entities like the national oil company PDVSA, as well as individuals closely linked to the Maduro regime.
These sanctions are intended to limit the regime’s financial resources and curtail its ability to function on the international stage, particularly through restrictions on oil exports, which have traditionally been a major source of income for Venezuela.
EU sanctions on Venezuela focus on human rights violations, implementing asset freezes and travel bans for individuals involved in the oppression of political opponents and peaceful protesters. Similarly, the UK has aligned its sanctions with the EU, focusing on promoting democratic processes and human rights in the country. By cutting off the regime from international financial systems and limiting its access to assets and resources, the international community aims to incentivise political reform in Venezuela.
