Venezuelan exodus looms as millions consider leaving amid lingering crisis, poll shows

By bne intellinews May 21, 2025

A new study by Venezuelan pollster Delphos signals a fresh surge in potential emigration, with 3.7mn people contemplating leaving the country in 2025, Diario de las Américas reported. 

Of those, 1.2mn say they are certain to emigrate, while another 2.5mn consider it a likely outcome. The data, unveiled at a forum on Venezuela’s outlook for 2025 at Andrés Bello Catholic University, comes as the country grapples with deepening political and economic instability.

The poll found that 78% of respondents had no plans to leave, yet the remaining share could push the number of Venezuelan migrants close to 10mn. 

Since 2013, over 9.1mn people have already fled the country, according to the Venezuelan Diaspora Observatory. Those now considering emigration cite economic hardship, insecurity, lack of public services, and eroding educational opportunities as primary drivers.

Roughly 45.5% of respondents said they see no improvement ahead, while 35% pointed to worsening financial conditions. 

Just 7.3% said they plan to study abroad—a figure analysts see as reflective of the broader social malaise.

Speaking at the event, sociologist Roberto Briceño León of the Social Science Laboratory (Lacso) outlined a national mood marked by uncertainty, muted frustration, and an increasingly fragmented vision of the future, according to Diario de las Américas.

University rector Arturo Peraza emphasised the critical role of research and public dialogue in confronting Venezuela’s democratic and developmental challenges.

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