In response, VSC has redoubled our efforts on a key demand: the immediate return of Venezuela’s gold, worth around £3.5 billion, which is being unlawfully withheld by the Bank of England. This campaign has gained incredible momentum, with over 14,000 people now signing our petition, and it has attracted the support of numerous trade union leaders and MPs through an Early Day Motion. We are circulating a motion for trade union branches to pass and produced a comprehensive factsheet to support this crucial campaign. Just last month, we hosted a powerful online event, “Emergency in Venezuela – End all sanctions, give back the gold!”, which brought together voices from Venezuela and the UK to discuss the urgent need for action.

 

The gold belongs to the Venezuelan people and must be used to alleviate suffering, especially in the wake of the earthquakes. In the ongoing struggle, it’s crucial to continue building the political pressure to secure its release. This is a central part of our work.

 

We are also fighting on other fronts. We continue to demand an end to the over 1,000 deadly US sanctions and to oppose the illegal show trial of President Nicolás Maduro. Our work defending international law and national sovereignty in Venezuela is more important than ever, and it’s thanks to your support that we can do it.

 

None of this vital work would be possible without our incredible community of supporters. To everyone who has donated, signed a petition, attended an event, or simply spread the word: thank you. Your solidarity is the lifeblood of this campaign. 

 

To keep the pressure on and continue our work, we urgently need more funds. We are planning more events, producing more materials, and expanding our  work, but this requires resources. Your donations, no matter the size, are vital to sustain our campaign.