Adeje Council has unanimously approved a motion in plenary session in support of the people of Venezuela, emphasising the importance of providing assistance and protection to displaced individuals from this country. The proposal, backed by all political groups in the council, includes several measures urging both the regional government and the national government to take concrete action to help Venezuelan nationals who have arrived in Spain seeking refuge.
The motion highlights the migratory crisis affecting Venezuela, described as "the largest mass exodus for political, social, and economic reasons in recent decades." In this regard, the council recalled the strong historical and cultural ties between the Canary Islands and Venezuela due to the close links between both communities.
Following the motion’s approval the Mayor of Adeje, José Miguel Rodríguez Fraga, said, “Today, we unanimously approved a motion in support of the Venezuelan people, a nation with whom we share a common past. The solidarity of the people of Adeje has always been exemplary, and this occasion is no different, without forgetting other global tragedies such as the war in Ukraine, Palestine, or the humanitarian crisis on the neighbouring continent."
Support and protection measures
Among the approved measures, AdejeCouncil urges the national government to declare temporary and urgent protection for displaced Venezuelans. This protection would include the immediate granting of residence and work permits, without the need for those affected to apply for asylum, thus facilitating their integration into Spanish society. Additionally, access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and social assistance would be guaranteed for those without sufficient resources.
Municipal integration and support
The motion also proposes the creation of municipal-level action plans to support the integration of the Venezuelan population residing in Adeje. These initiatives include collaboration with Venezuelan community associations, the promotion of training and employment inclusion programmes, and the encouragement of measures to facilitate the recognition of academic qualifications and the accreditation of professional experience, contributing to their full integration into the community.
Following the plenary session, the Mayor gave the floor to representatives of the Asociación Unidad del Pueblo Venezolano/Association for the Unity of the Venezuelan People, who thanked the council and political groups for their support. They also urged the Council to continue working to ensure these demands reach the central government and translate into concrete actions that improve the situation of Venezuelans in Spain.
