» Country Overview
» Network Access
» Network Overview
» Networked Learning
» Networked Society
» Networked Economy
» Network Policy
» Offshore Opportunities
» Analysis & Recommendations

OTHER LINKS

» Chicago Consulate

Analysis & Recommendations

►Network Access ►Networked Learning ►Networked Society ► Networked Economy ► Network Policy ► Offshore Opportunities ◄

Network Access

The government of Venezuela should be commended for making access to the Internet available to its citizens. While Venezuelans benefit from Internet access, Hugo Chavez’s administration needs to focus on its communications infrastructure to attract foreign employment contracts. Since a very high majority of Venezuelans live and work in major cities like Caracas, boosting technology in the workplace would also boost the economy with more jobs and diversification.

Networked Learning

The presence and utilization of technology in Venezuela's primary and secondary schools fall behind other developed countries, including those in South America. While art and music education are superior, increased access to information communication and technology would broaden students’ horizons. Although the recently passed "Organic Education Law" guarantees education to all children, immersing children into the socialist regime could negatively impact intellectual growth and sense of community. Rather than pushing a socialist agenda and flawed ideology in the classroom, Venezuelan schools should invest in more technology and educate teachers how to utilize the technology during instruction.

Networked Society

Venezuela's citizens have become more and more technology savvy over the years with much of the credit going to the government's push to bring the Internet to all of its citizens. This push has brought with it many locally relevant websites along with web-base. The fact that its citizens are well networked brings issues for the government if it tries to impose restrictions on networks in any way. Venezuela's network use is on the rise and will continue to rise significantly in the future. The government would be better served to remove restrictions rather then impose more as a means to continue the growth trend higher.

Networked Economy

Nationalizing many key Venezuelan firms both positively and negatively impacted the economy. While the GDP rose, the economy ultimately suffered with the fall of the oil industry. Venezuela is making the correct decision to invest more in information technology and increasing telecommunications to benefit its citizen’s livelihoods and education.

Network Policy

The turmoil of Venezuelan politics significantly damaged the economy and did little to help citizens’ lives. Hugo Chavez's threats, takeovers, and heavy-handed ruling may ward off political opponents. However, these tactics do little to instill confidence in its citizens. Leaders need to be aware that Venezuelans will rebel if they steal their rights and freedom to Internet information. President Chavez needs to change his policies and relinquish his control over all communication to his citizens.

Offshore Opportunities

Venezuela desperately needs the diversification of offshore opportunities. Sadly, the socialist government repels such interest. Tax credits for foreign businesses could generate other countries’ interest in employing Venezuelans. The country is too dependent upon oil. With 90% of the exports tied to oil, the country is vulnerable to downturns in the oil industry. Additionally, with many countries forcing their energy policies away from natural resources like oil and coal, Venezuela needs to add additional revenue streams. With its natural beauty and diverse landscape, Venezuela could potentially become a popular tourist destination, bringing millions in revenue. In addition, offering tax credits to foreign businesses would attract more investors although that policy is difficult to implement in a socialist government.