Which countries host the largest Venezuelan populations?

Al JazeeraCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete by Alia ChughtaiJanuary 12, 2026 at 01:19 PM

AI Summary

short article 2 min

Since 1999, nearly 8 million Venezuelans have left their country due to political and economic crises. The exodus began with Hugo Chavez's presidency and intensified after Nicolas Maduro took power in 2013, inheriting debt and facing plummeting oil prices that led to economic collapse. As of early 2026, this diaspora is one of the world's largest. Most Venezuelan refugees have sought refuge in South and Central American countries, with a significant number also migrating to the United States. Neighboring countries like Colombia and Peru, which already host large Venezuelan communities, are preparing for a potential new influx following the abduction of President Maduro in January 2026.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Al Jazeera ×250% Central America 60% South America 60% Hugo Chavez ×270% Peru 70% United States 70% Colombia 70% Nicolás Maduro (Maduro) ×280% Venezuela ×690%

Keywords

venezuelan migration 100% economic crisis 80% refugees 70% political crisis 70% inflation 60% nicolas maduro 60% south america 50% hugo chavez 50% poverty 40%