CARACAS, Venezuela — Law enforcement officers formed blockades throughout Venezuela’s capital city Thursday as labor union representatives, retired workers and government employees attempted to reach the presidential residence demanding improved salaries and retirement benefits.
The demonstration took place just one day after acting President Delcy Rodríguez appeared on state television requesting patience from both government and private sector employees while her administration addresses the nation’s economic challenges.
For several years, employee compensation has fallen far short of covering essential living expenses. Government workers typically earn approximately $160 monthly, while private sector employees averaged around $237 annually.
Law enforcement personnel positioned themselves throughout central Caracas early Thursday morning to prevent the demonstration from advancing. Protesters managed to push through several initial roadblocks multiple times. However, strengthened police barriers ultimately stopped the crowd approximately 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) away from the Miraflores presidential compound.
Authorities reported no immediate casualties or detentions resulting from confrontations between law enforcement and demonstrators.
During her televised statement, Rodríguez pledged salary improvements beginning May 1. While she did not specify exact amounts, she indicated the adjustments would be structured to prevent the economic inflation that occurred following previous minimum wage modifications.
The country’s current minimum wage stands at 130 bolivars, equivalent to $0.27 monthly, unchanged since 2022. This amount falls significantly below the United Nations’ extreme poverty threshold of $3 daily.
“This increase, as we have indicated, will be a responsible increase,” Rodríguez said. “Likewise in the near future, as Venezuela enjoys more resources that allow for the sustainability of salary improvements and workers’ income, we will continue moving forward on this path.”
