Tuesday, January 20, 2026, 5:00 PM PT

Venezuela stands at a critical juncture following the unprecedented removal of Nicolás Maduro by the U.S. government – a development that is reshaping the political and economic landscape of the region. This turning point raises pressing questions about Washington’s strategic objectives, the future of governance in Venezuela, and the broader implications for global markets and regional stability.

On January 20, the UCLA Anderson Center for Global Management (CGM) hosted an in-depth discussion on these developments and their far-reaching consequences. The conversation addressed the geopolitical and economic dimensions of this moment, exploring implications for Venezuela’s future, regional dynamics, global markets and international business. Francisco Rodriguez, a leading Venezuelan economist and world renowned expert on the country, together with CGM faculty director and economist Professor Romain Wacziarg to analyze how shifting U.S. engagement strategies intersect with energy, trade, and investment considerations – and what this means for businesses and policymakers navigating an increasingly complex global landscape. Rodriguez also addressed the human aspects of the country’s economic collapse and explained how Venezuela’s economic recovery, particularly in the oil sector, could dramatically improve the lives and well-being of millions. If the current arrangement and transition proceed successfully, Venezuela could become the fastest growing economy in Latin America in the coming years. Rodriguez emphasized that the country now has an opportunity for a democratic transition. He noted that the Venezuelan opposition will need to carefully consider how to seize this moment and negotiate a viable path forward. While many questions and uncertainties remain, the discussion helped to clarify key issues and illuminate the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Rodriguez served as head of the Economic and Financial Advisory of the Venezuelan National Assembly and is the author of four books and more than sixty research articles. His most recent book, The Collapse of Venezuela: Scorched Earth Politics and Economic Decline, 2012-2020, was published in March 2025, and his Foreign Affairs article, “Venezuela After Maduro: A Conversation With Francisco Rodríguez,” was published January 3, 2026

The discussion, which drew a global audience, was open to UCLA students, alumni, faculty, staff, and the wider UCLA community, as well as the general public. VIEW VIDEO

About the Series
The World Today Discussion Series engages the audience in interactive and enriching conversations around current issues that transcend borders. UCLA and Anderson faculty, alumni, board members and thought leaders share their perspectives on the critical global topics and issues that matter to our community and the world. Through balanced discourse, the series serves as a neutral forum to educate the community on global issues, while at the same time encouraging debate and examination.