Venezuela: Humanitarian Response to Earthquakes Heightens Risk of Exploitation and Abuse

A devastating earthquake in June 2026 has left thousands of people in Venezuela without homes, access to basic services, and livelihoods. The government has declared a state of emergency, and humanitarian operations are underway to provide assistance. However, the rapid response has also increased the risk of exploitation and abuse, particularly for vulnerable groups such as women, children, and people with disabilities. Humanitarian actors have identified severe multisectoral impacts, including effects on health, water, sanitation, and hygiene, nutrition, and food security. The loss of homes, temporary displacement of families, and interruption of essential services have created conditions that may exacerbate the risk of exploitation and abuse. In response, national authorities, UN agencies, NGOs, and other humanitarian partners have expanded their operational presence to support affected communities through vital assistance and early recovery actions.