Venezuela Protection Situation Update #3 – Earthquake Response

Country: Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of) Sources: Protection Cluster, UN High Commissioner for Refugees Please refer to the attached file. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY On the 24th of June 2026, two earthquakes of 7. 2 and 7. 5 magnitudes affected the centre-north of Venezuela, with particularly severe consequences in the states of La Guaira and Grand Caracas. After 12 days, the emergency continues to evolve in a context marked by internal displacement, temporary shelter arrangements for affected populations in formal or informal collective spaces, persistent disruptions in access to services, and growing demand for humanitarian assistance and protection mechanisms. The available information shows that protection needs continue to rise among the population affected by the earthquakes. In addition, the effects of the emergency are not strictly limited to the areas directly impacted, as population displacements have been observed toward host communities and other states in the country, including Bolívar, Delta Amacuro, Anzoátegui, Sucre, Zulia, Táchira, and Apure. The loss of homes, displacement, stays in temporary government-managed shelters and informal accommodation sites, as well as the disruption or weakening of family, community, institutional, and protection networks, have increased exposure to protection risks and reduced the coping capacity of affected communities. Assessments conducted identify significant concerns related to mental health and psychosocial support needs, family separation, inadequate privacy and security in accommodation facilities, and the loss of personal documentation, which may affect access to assistance and essential services. These risks disproportionately affect children and adolescents, women, older persons, persons with disabilities, and other individuals with specific protection needs. In this context, the sector’s priorities continue to focus on strengthening protection mechanisms for the most vulnerable populations, increasing access to specialised services, and helping ensure that affected people can access humanitarian assistance and available services safely and with dignity.

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