The situation on the border between Brazil and Venezuela worries authorities in Roraima following the recent tension between the United States and the Nicolás Maduro regime. In an interview with Live CNNAntonio Denarium, governor of Roraima, expressed great concern about the possible increase in the migratory flow of Venezuelans to Brazil.
“It is a very big concern. If the influx of Venezuelans increases, the country will not have the conditions and capacity to provide assistance,” warned Denarium.
According to official data cited by the governor, since the beginning of the humanitarian crisis in Venezuela in 2016/2017, “more than 4 million Venezuelans have left Venezuela.” Colombia received approximately 2 million, while Brazil has already welcomed more than 1 million and 400 thousand Venezuelans, according to records from the Federal Police and the Ministry of Defense through .
Roraima as the main gateway
Of the Venezuelans who entered Brazil, 72% used Roraima as their gateway, mainly through the city of Pacaraima. Currently, around 186 thousand Venezuelans live in the state, according to IBGE estimates cited by Denarium.
The governor highlighted that, at the peak of migration, between 1,500 and 2,000 Venezuelans entered Roraima per day. Over the past 30 days, that number has dropped to an average of 300 to 500 people daily – “and with this attack occurring, we are living in a time of great concern and are taking note.”
Denarium also commented on possible future scenarios: “In my understanding, if there is a peaceful transition, where the United States has control of the situation, I believe it will inhibit the exit of Venezuelans to other countries. If it is a transition where there is resistance from the Maduro regime, a civil war could occur and increase the exit of Venezuelans to other countries.”
Challenges in border control
The governor highlighted that Roraima has , more than 2,200 kilometers long. Even with the official closure of the border during certain periods, Venezuelans use alternative routes to enter Brazilian territory.
“Even with the border closed, Venezuelans use alternative routes to enter Brazil. So, there is great concern on our part,” concluded Denarium.
