What a difference forty years makes - from the Panam Post:
Venezuela Then and Now: The “Achievements” of Chavista Socialism
Venezuela is a country that has changed a lot since its golden years, those in which it was the symbolic capital of Latin America, due to its progress, drive and sustained economic growth. Today, Venezuela is the poorest country in the region. All this happened after 20 years of socialism. Rather than writing a reflection or analysis of this situation, I present some data that shows the radical changes from the era of democratic Venezuela of the 1980s, to the current Venezuela governed by Chavismo.
Immigration and emigration:
1979: During the process of registration of foreigners, the government announces that they will be granting residence visas to Colombians with more than five years in the country.
2019: More than one million Venezuelans are living in Colombia as refugees.
Infrastructure and services:
1979: The West Tower of the Central Park Complex is inaugurated. At the time it was the tallest skyscraper in Latin America.
2019: Water does not reach the buildings of Caracas.
Communication and press freedom:
1980: Color television transmissions are officially launched throughout the country.
2019: 115 media outlets have closed since the arrival of Nicolás Maduro to power.
Import and local production:
1980: The decree launching the slogan “Buy Venezuelan” is published in Official Gazette No. 32,329, in order to reduce the number of imports to favor domestic companies.
2019: Venezuela imports 75% of the food consumed in the country.
Many more of these at the site. Socialism has never ever worked.
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