The 2008 regional elections will be an important moment in Venezuela. After chavista-sponsored constitutional reforms were narrowly rejected by voters in December 2007, many have argued that popular support for President Chavez and the Bolivarian process is waning. It remains to be seen whether or not the political opposition will indeed be able to make electoral gains in November or if chavistas will regain political momentum. Regardless of its outcome, observing these exciting elections in Venezuela is an unique experience that will give participants insights into popular participation, social involvement and democracy in Venezuela.

We invite you to travel to Venezuela with Global Exchange to dig past the headlines and explore the changes occurring in Venezuela. Apart from observing the electoral process, you will meet with human rights activists, rural agricultural workers, labor unions, community activists, journalists, and government as well as opposition figures, and see for yourself the unprecedented social change that is occurring at this historic time in Venezuela and the region. At the crossroads of the Andean mountains, the Caribbean coast, the Amazon rainforest, and the Amacuro River Delta, Venezuela's wondrous natural diversity and beauty combined with its visionary social justice agenda guarantee an exciting -- and unforgettable -- experience.

Read articles and blogs by past participants.

Program Highlights:

• Meet with political candidates running for office from both sides of the political spectin the November election.
• Learn about Venezuela's electoral council [CNE] and meet with election officials.
• Observe the election process on the day of the vote by visiting polling stations and speaking with voters.
• Travel to Venezuela's educational and health care "missions" social programs (social programs the "missions") in urban areas and dialogue with participants and community leaders.
• Learn about the oil industry- Venezuela's key source of national income- and Venezuela's role in economic regionalization, meeting with high-level representatives.
• Dialogue with religious leaders, labor leaders, women's organizations, human rights groups and Bolivarian circles
• Find out about new programs for women under the new constitution, and perspectives of indigenous peoples and people of African descent in Venezuela.
• Enjoy Afro-Venezuelan music and dance by young people who are reclaiming and celebrating their heritage.
• Extend your stay in Venezuela and visit Mérida, the Jewel of the Andes; the beautiful archipelago of Los Roques north of Caracas; or the world's highest waterfall, Salto Angel (Angel Falls), each situated in a spectacular natural setting.

Cost: $1550

Price Includes:

• Double-room hotel accommodations
• Two meals per day
• Transportation to and from all programmed activities
• Language translation
• A qualified trip leader
• All program activities and honoraria to all host speakers, organizations and communities.
• Reading materials
• NOT INCLUDED: International airfare, lunches, airport departure taxes, tips, and personal expenses are not included.
• Single rooms are available for an additional $200.
• Learn more about fundraising or scholarship opportunities.

How to Register:

This trip will be as diverse as possible in terms of race, age and life experiences. We strongly urge people of color to apply. In some cases, a limited number of partial scholarships are available for low-income applicants.

Make your reservation online now!

Contact Abby with any questions about this trip, or call toll-free 1-800-497-1994 .