Info
Disclaimer: This section of Comparative Data is not being updated.
Users should be aware that data may be inaccurate. If you find inaccuracies please
contact the ACE facilitators .
Boundary Delimitation
BD001
Delimitation of constituencies
Question: Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law: “Ley Orgánica de Procesos Electorales”, art. 19, 175, 179: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-ley-organica-procesos-electorales-2009/ ;
Electoral Branch Law: “Ley Orgánica del Poder Electoral”, art. 33 (11): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/leyes-electorales/venezuela-ley-organica-poder-electoral-2002/
Verified: 2020/11/15
BD002
Question: The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:
Answer(s):
c . The Electoral Management Body
Comments: CNE
Source: Ley Orgánica Poder Electoral, art. 33
Ley Orgánica del Sufragio y Participación Política (Basic Law of Suffrage and Political Participation), Art. 14
Verified: 2003/09/29
BD003
Criteria for drawing boundaries
Question: On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
Answer(s):
a . "Equality" of population c . Compactness of constituencies d . Conformity with local jurisdiction boundaries f . Communities of interest/cultural concerns
Comments: Indigenous districts are drawn.
Source: Electoral Law: “Ley Orgánica de Procesos Electorales”, art. 19, 175, 179: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-ley-organica-procesos-electorales-2009/
Verified: 2020/11/15
BD004
Question: If population is a criterion, which population figure is used?
Answer:
c . Number of registered voters
Comments:
Source: LOSPP, art. 67, 68 y 69.
Verified: 2003/08/05
BD005
Body responsible for drawing boundaries
Question: The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:
Answer(s):
e . Electoral Management Body (EMB)
Comments: The National Electoral Council (Consejo Nacional Electoral)
Source: Electoral Law: “Ley Orgánica de Procesos Electorales”, art. 19: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-ley-organica-procesos-electorales-2009/ ;
Electoral Branch Law: “Ley Orgánica del Poder Electoral”, art. 33 (11): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/leyes-electorales/venezuela-ley-organica-poder-electoral-2002/
Verified: 2020/11/15
BD006
Question: What statistical or other reasons trigger the redrawing of electoral constituency boundaries?
Answer(s):
c . Changes in numbers of registered voters d . Changes in distribution of total population g . Changes in administrative boundaries
Comments:
Source: LOSPP, art. 68
Verified: 2003/08/05
Electoral Systems
ES001
Head of State
Question: How is the Head of State selected?
Answer(s):
a . Head of State is the Head of Government b . Directly elected in general elections (simple majority)
Comments: The president is both the head of state and the head of government. The president is elected in universal, direct and secret elections. The candidate who receives the majority of valid votes is elected as president. The President serves a term of 6 years and can be reelected.
Source: Constitution: “Constitución de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela”, art. 226, 228: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-constitucion-reforma-2009/ ;
Electoral Law: “Ley Orgánica de Procesos Electorales”, art. 7: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-ley-organica-procesos-electorales-2009/
Verified: 2020/11/15
ES002
Head of Government
Question: How is the Head of Government selected?
Answer:
a . Directly elected in general elections (simple majority)
Comments: The President who is both the head of state and the head of government is directly elected by the majority of valid votes.
Source: Constitution: “Constitución de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela”, art. 228: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-constitucion-reforma-2009/ ;
Electoral Law: “Ley Orgánica de Procesos Electorales”, art. 7: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-ley-organica-procesos-electorales-2009/
Verified: 2020/11/15
ES003
President
Question: Does the country have a president?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Constitution: “Constitución de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela”, art. 225–237: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-constitucion-reforma-2009/
Verified: 2020/11/15
ES004
Number of Chambers
Question: The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
Answer:
a . One chamber
Comments:
Source: Constitution: “Constitución de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela”, art. 186: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-constitucion-reforma-2009/
Verified: 2020/11/15
ES005
Electoral System (Chamber 1)
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
e . Parallel (Segmented) (PR Lists and Majoritarian constituencies)
Comments:
Source: Constitution: “Constitución de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela”, art. 186: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-constitucion-reforma-2009/
Electoral Law: “Ley Orgánica de Procesos Electorales”, art. 8: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-ley-organica-procesos-electorales-2009/
Verified: 2020/11/15
ES006
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 2 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
k . The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Comments: The Asamblea Nacional is the national legislature.
Source: Constitución, art. 186
Verified: 2003/08/01
ES007
Question: If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?
Answer:
a . d'Hondt Formula
Comments:
Source: LOSPP, art. 11 y 12.
Verified: 2003/09/26
ES008
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?
Answer(s):
b . Specially delimited constituencies
Comments: They are distributed by federal entity.
Source: Constitución, art. 186
Verified: 2003/08/01
ES009
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitución, art. 186
Verified: 2003/09/26
ES010
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 1 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: The native towns of the Republic Bolivariana of Venezuela, choose three representatives according to the electoral law.
Source: Constitución, art. 186
Verified: 2003/08/01
ES012
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 2 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
c . The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Comments:
Source: Constitución, art. 186
Verified: 2003/09/26
ES014
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 1?
Answer:
a . No minimum
Comments:
Source: LOSPP, art. 17
Verified: 2003/09/26
ES015
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 2?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitución, art. 186
Verified: 2003/11/12
ES016
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 1?
Answer:
a . No minimum
Comments:
Source: LOSPP, art. 17
Verified: 2003/09/26
ES017
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 2?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitución, art. 186
Verified: 2003/09/26
ES018
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
a . At fixed intervals (specify length)
Comments: The elections are celebrated each 5 years.
Source: Constitución, art. 192
Verified: 2003/08/01
ES019
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 2, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitución, art. 186
Verified: 2003/09/26
ES020
Question: Regarding Chamber 1 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
a . Voting takes place on one day
Comments: In day Sunday of the first two-week period of the month of December of the previous year to the conclusion of the corresponding period.
Source: LOSPP, art. 152 y 158.
Verified: 2003/09/26
ES021
Question: Regarding Chamber 2 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitución, art, 186
Verified: 2003/09/26
Legislative Framework
LF001
Status of Electoral Law
Question: What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Part of Constitution b . Separate legislation d . Regulations or administrative rules
Comments:
Source: Constitution: “Constitución de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela”: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-constitucion-reforma-2009/ ;
Electoral Law: “Ley Orgánica de Procesos Electorales”: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-ley-organica-procesos-electorales-2009/ ;
Electoral Branch Law: “Ley Orgánica del Poder Electoral”: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/leyes-electorales/venezuela-ley-organica-poder-electoral-2002/ ;
Political Parties’ Law: “Ley de partidos políticos, reuniones públicas y manifestaciones”: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-ley-partidos-politicos-2010/
Verified: 2020/11/15
LF002
Question: What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?
Answer:
b . January 1990- December 1999
Comments:
Source: LOSPP, 1998.
Verified: 2003/09/26
LF003
Electoral Law covers
Question: The national electoral law covers:
Answer(s):
a . National elections c . Local elections d . Referendums e . Other
Comments: Recalls and elections for unions, etc.
Source: Electoral Branch Law: “Ley Orgánica del Poder Electoral”, art. 33 (1 & 2): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/leyes-electorales/venezuela-ley-organica-poder-electoral-2002/
Verified: 2020/11/15
LF004
Compulsory/voluntary voting
Question: Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
Answer(s):
a . Voting is voluntary
Comments: According to the Constitution, voting is a right and not an obligation.
Furthermore, the Organic Law regulating the Electoral Processes specifies that no person shall be forced under any circumstances to exercise his/her right to vote.
Source: Constitution: “Constitución de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela”, art. 63: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-constitucion-reforma-2009/ ;
Electoral Law: “Ley Orgánica de Procesos Electorales”, art. 126: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-ley-organica-procesos-electorales-2009/
Verified: 2020/11/15
LF005
Question: Are there provisions in the law which permit or require regional and/ or local election (s) to be held on the same day as national elections?
Answer:
a . National elections are not held on the same day as regional or local elections
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2003/08/01
LF006
Question: Are there provisions in the law which permit or require presidential election (s) to be held on the same day as national legislative elections?
Answer(s):
a . Presidential elections are not held on the same day as national legislative elections
Comments:
Source: Constitución, art. 230
Verified: 2003/08/01
LF007
Electoral Disputes Agency(ies)
Question: What are the agency(ies) responsible for the first level of formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
b . EMB
Comments: An appeal can be filed before the National Electoral Council within twenty (20) working days following completion of the act related to election results.
Source: Electoral Branch Law: “Ley Orgánica del Poder Electoral”, art. 33 (30 & 31): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/leyes-electorales/venezuela-ley-organica-poder-electoral-2002/ ;
Electoral Law: “Ley Orgánica de Procesos Electorales”, art. 197, 203: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-ley-organica-procesos-electorales-2009/
Verified: 2020/11/15
LF008
Question: If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: LOSPP, art. 228
Verified: 2003/09/26
LF009
Question: Who has the right to submit cases to the person or agency(ies)which settles formal disputes?
Answer(s):
b . Parties c . Voters e . Other
Comments: e) Natural and juridical persons who have interest.
Source: LOSPP, art. 236
Verified: 2003/09/26
LF010
Question: What body(ies) is the final appellate authority for formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
c . Superior Court
Comments: Supreme Court across his Political - Administrative Room.
Source: LOSPP, art. 240
Verified: 2003/09/29
LF011
Question: Which body(ies) proposes electoral reforms?
Answer(s):
a . Election Management Body
Comments:
Source: Ley Orgánica del Poder Electoral.
Verified: 2003/08/01
Electoral Management
EM002
Responsibility of national EMB
Question: Does the national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
Answer(s):
a . National level c . Local level d . Other kinds of elections (church, union, etc.) Please specify.
Comments: Referenda, recalls, union elections.
Source: Electoral Branch Law: “Ley Orgánica del Poder Electoral”, art. 33 (1 & 2): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/leyes-electorales/venezuela-ley-organica-poder-electoral-2002/
Verified: 2020/11/15
EM003
Question: The national electoral management body reports to:
Answer(s):
f . Other
Comments: f) It is autonomous and independent from other branches of the Juridical Power.
Source: Ley Orgánica del Poder Electoral, art. 7
Verified: 2003/11/12
EM004
EMB budget determined by
Question: The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:
Answer(s):
c . The legislature
Comments: The electoral authority prepares independently its annual draft budget and submits it to the National Executive for incorporation, without modification, to the respective Budget Bill which is submitted to the National Assembly for consideration. Only the National Assembly may make changes to the draft budget presented by the electoral authority.
Source: Electoral Branch Law: “Ley Orgánica del Poder Electoral”, art. 6: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/leyes-electorales/venezuela-ley-organica-poder-electoral-2002/
Verified: 2020/11/15
EM005
EMB expenditures controlled by
Question: The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
Answer(s):
c . The legislature
Comments: The National Electoral Council shall, within sixty (60) days after the expiration of the fiscal year, submit to the National Assembly an audit report and a report on the budget implementation.
Source: Electoral Branch Law: “Ley Orgánica del Poder Electoral”, art. 16: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/leyes-electorales/venezuela-ley-organica-poder-electoral-2002/
Verified: 2020/11/15
EM006
Term of EMB members
Question: The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
Answer:
b . For a specified number of years
Comments: 7 years. Members can be re-elected twice.
Source: Constitution: “Constitución de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela”, art. 296: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-constitucion-reforma-2009/ ;
Electoral Branch Law: “Ley Orgánica del Poder Electoral”, art. 8: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/leyes-electorales/venezuela-ley-organica-poder-electoral-2002/
Verified: 2020/11/15
EM007
Question: The national electoral management body chairperson, or equivalent, is chosen in the following way:
Answer(s):
g . Other
Comments: g) The President is appointed for the same Consejo Nacional Electoral (CNE)
Source: Ley Orgánica del Poder Electoral, art. 36 y 37.
Verified: 2003/11/12
EM012
Electoral Management model
Question: What is the Electoral Management model?
Answer:
b . Independent
Comments: The National Electoral Council is a permanent body that performs its functions independently and is autonomous.
Source: Constitution: “Constitución de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela”, art. 294: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-constitucion-reforma-2009/ ;
Electoral Branch Law: “Ley Orgánica del Poder Electoral”: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/leyes-electorales/venezuela-ley-organica-poder-electoral-2002/
Verified: 2020/11/15
EM013
Number of EMB members
Question: The EMB is composed of:
Answer:
a . 1 - 10 members (specify)
Comments: The National Electoral Council is composed of 5 members.
Source: Constitution: “Constitución de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela”, art. 296: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-constitucion-reforma-2009/ ;
Electoral Branch Law: “Ley Orgánica del Poder Electoral”, art. 8: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/leyes-electorales/venezuela-ley-organica-poder-electoral-2002/
Verified: 2020/11/15
EM014
Membership based on
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected on the basis of their:
Answer:
b . Expertise
Comments: The members of the National Electoral Council must meet the following requirements:
1) Be of Venezuelan nationality for at least 15 years, be at least 30 years old and enjoy all their civil and political rights;
2) Hold a university degree and have at least 10 years of professional experience after having obtained the degree, preferably in the field of elections;
3) They must not be affiliated to any political organisation;
4) Have not been convicted for a crime during the last 20 years;
5) They must not have any family links with the President or the candidates.
Source: Constitution: “Constitución de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela”, art. 296: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-constitucion-reforma-2009/ ;
Electoral Branch Law: “Ley Orgánica del Poder Electoral”, art. 9: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/leyes-electorales/venezuela-ley-organica-poder-electoral-2002/
Verified: 2020/11/15
EM015
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected by:
Answer(s):
e . Legislature
Comments: The National Assembly selects the members of the National Electoral Council with a 2/3 majority of its members.
Source: Constitution: “Constitución de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela”, art. 296: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-constitucion-reforma-2009/ ;
Electoral Branch Law: “Ley Orgánica del Poder Electoral”, art. 8: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/leyes-electorales/venezuela-ley-organica-poder-electoral-2002/
Verified: 2020/11/15
Voter Education
VE001
Information campaigns performed by
Question: Who conducts information campaigns for national elections (informing where, when and how to register and/or vote)?
Answer(s):
a . National Electoral Management Body
Comments: The National Electoral Council
Source: Electoral Branch Law: “Ley Orgánica del Poder Electoral”, art. 33 (43): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/leyes-electorales/venezuela-ley-organica-poder-electoral-2002/
Verified: 2020/11/15
VE002
Frequency of voter education programs
Question: At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
Answer:
a . Continuously
Comments: According to the law: "One of the responsibilities of the National Electoral Council is to maintain permanent facilities to training, education and electoral information."
Source: Electoral Branch Law: “Ley Orgánica del Poder Electoral”, art. 33 (43), 43 (5): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/leyes-electorales/venezuela-ley-organica-poder-electoral-2002/
Verified: 2020/11/15
VE003
National civic education
Question: Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
Answer(s):
b . Yes, conducted by the National Electoral Management Body
Comments: Office for Electoral Registration: Achievement of campaigns of motivation to stimulate the civil participation
Source: Electoral Branch Law: “Ley Orgánica del Poder Electoral”, art. 68: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/leyes-electorales/venezuela-ley-organica-poder-electoral-2002/
Verified: 2020/11/15
Voter Registration
VR001
Voting age
Question: What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
Answer:
c . 18
Comments:
Source: Constitution: “Constitución de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela”, art. 64: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-constitucion-reforma-2009/ ;
Electoral Law: “Ley Orgánica de Procesos Electorales”, art. 29: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-ley-organica-procesos-electorales-2009/
Verified: 2020/11/15
VR002
Other voting requirements
Question: Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Citizenship e . Other
Comments: Be registered in the Electoral Roll.
Source: Constitution: “Constitución de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela”, art. 64: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-constitucion-reforma-2009/ ;
Electoral Law: “Ley Orgánica de Procesos Electorales”, art. 29: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-ley-organica-procesos-electorales-2009/
Verified: 2020/11/15
VR003
Question: What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?
Answer(s):
a . Criminal Incarceration d . Mental disability e . Military Service
Comments:
Source: LOSPP, art. 85
Verified: 2003/08/04
VR004
Authority responsible for voter registration
Question: Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
Answer:
d . Election Management Body (specify)
Comments: The Voter Registration Office is in charge of the Electoral Register and shall exercise its functions under the direction and supervision of the National Electoral Council.
Source: Electoral Law: “Ley Orgánica de Procesos Electorales”, art. 31: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-ley-organica-procesos-electorales-2009/
Verified: 2020/11/15
VR005
Question: What is the registration method for national elections?
Answer:
d . Other
Comments: d) At the request of the elector, it is included in the Electoral Record. The voter has the obligation to report his data from residence to the Office of the Electoral Registration.
Source: LOSPP, art. 98, 99, 100 y 101
Verified: 2003/09/24
VR006
Question: How frequently is the voters register updated?
Answer:
a . Continuously
Comments: a) monthly.
Source: LOSPP, art. 97
Verified: 2003/08/04
VR007
Question: What methods are used to compile and update the voters register?
Answer(s):
a . Links to national population records b . Links to police records of residence c . Links for applications for government services e . Appearance by voter at registration office
Comments: Oficinas Nacionales Registro Electoral.
Source: LOSPP, art. 98, 100, 106 y 112.
Verified: 2003/09/24
VR008
Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Question: Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: All Venezuelans who meet the requirements for the right and duty to vote and who have been issued a corresponding identity card will be automatically incorporated into the Electoral Registry, based on the data included in the Civil Registry.
Source: Electoral Law: “Ley Orgánica de Procesos Electorales”, art. 27: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-ley-organica-procesos-electorales-2009/
Verified: 2020/11/15
Parties and Candidates
PC001
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Signature requirement (specify requirement) c . Regional distribution requirement f . Other
Comments: A minimum of 40% of the party candidates must be women.
Source: Political Parties’ Law: “Ley de partidos políticos, reuniones públicas y manifestaciones”, art. 10, 16: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-ley-partidos-politicos-2010/
Verified: 2020/11/15
PC002
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 2)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
g . No information available
Comments:
Source: Constitución, art. 186
Verified: 2003/09/30
PC003
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship d . Residence f . Registration
Comments: 1. Be Venezuelan by birth or naturalization with at least fifteen years of residence in Venezuela.
2. Be at least twenty-one years old.
3. Have resided for four consecutive years in the relevant constituency before the date of the election.
Source: Constitution: “Constitución de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela”, art. 188: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-constitucion-reforma-2009/ ;
Electoral Law: “Ley Orgánica de Procesos Electorales”, art. 55: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-ley-organica-procesos-electorales-2009/
Verified: 2020/11/15
PC004
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 2)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
k . No information available
Comments:
Source: Constitución, art. 186
Verified: 2003/09/30
PC005
Question: What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship c . Country of birth f . Registration j . Other
Comments: j) Over 30 years, Venezuelan of birth, not to be submitted to prison sentence by means of firm sentence, not to exercise specific public offices.
Source: Constitución, art. 225
Verified: 2003/09/24
PC006
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?
Answer(s):
a . Current criminal incarceration d . Naturalization g . Holding of government office
Comments:
Source: Constitución, art. 227 y 229
Verified: 2003/08/01
PC007
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
a . Current criminal incarceration d . Naturalization g . Holding of government office
Comments:
Source: Constitución, art. 227 y 229
Verified: 2003/08/01
PC008
Independent candidates
Question: Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
Answer(s):
e . In both presidential and legislative elections
Comments: All the above candidates have the right to run for elections:
1. Political organizations.
2. Groups of electors.
3. Independent citizens.
4. Indigenous communities or organizations.
Independent candidates must be supported by electors' signatures equal to five percent (5%) of the population in the Electoral Registry of the constituency they wish to run for.
Source: Electoral Law: “Ley Orgánica de Procesos Electorales”, art. 49, 52, 53: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-ley-organica-procesos-electorales-2009/
Verified: 2020/11/15
PC009
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
d . Other
Comments: d) Through Groups of Voters, 0,5 tenths of the voters of the district that treat.
Source: LOSPP, art. 132
Verified: 2003/11/13
PC010
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitución, art. 186
Verified: 2003/09/30
PC011
Question: If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
d . Other
Comments: d) Through Groups of Voters, 0,5 tenths of the voters of the district that treat.
Source: LOSPP, art. 132
Verified: 2003/11/13
PC012
Public funding of parties
Question: Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
Answer(s):
c . Indirect
Comments: The National Electoral Council could finance the use of the media for campaign purposes, either part or the whole of it.
Source: Electoral Law: “Ley Orgánica de Procesos Electorales”, art. 78: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-ley-organica-procesos-electorales-2009/
Verified: 2020/11/15
PC013
Question: If political parties receive direct/indirect public funding, when do they receive this?
Answer(s):
c . As related to the election period and between elections
Comments:
Source: LOSPP, art. 203
Verified: 2003/08/01
PC014
Question: If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:
Answer(s):
a . Free media access
Comments: a) With not state means of diffusion.
Source: LOSPP. art. 212
Verified: 2003/08/01
PC015
Question: What is the basis of the public funding?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments: Pubic funding of political parties is expressly prohibited in the Constitution.
Source: Constitution: “Constitución de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela”, art. 67: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-constitucion-reforma-2009/
Verified: 2020/11/15
PC016
Question: If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?
Answer(s):
a . General party administration b . Election campaign activities
Comments:
Source: LOSPP, art. 203
Verified: 2003/08/01
PC017
Question: Are political parties entitled to private funding?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Regulations for Electoral Processes: "Reglamento General de la Ley Orgánica de Procesos Electorales", arts. 253–257: aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-reglamento-general-ley-procesos-electorales-2013/
Verified: 2020/11/15
PC018
Question: If political parties are entitled to private funding, for what period?
Answer(s):
c . As related to the election period and between elections
Comments:
Source: LOSPP, art. 203
Verified: 2003/10/01
PC019
Question: Which of the following party financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
b . Public disclosure of party expenditure i . Other
Comments: i) The political organizations and candidates will not be able to receive anonymous contributions.
Source: LOSPP, art. 202 y 203
Verified: 2003/10/01
PC020
Question: Which of the following candidate financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
b . Public disclosure of candidate expenditure i . Other
Comments: i) The political organizations and candidates will not be able to receive anonymous contributions.
Source: LOSPP, art. 202 y 203
Verified: 2003/10/01
PC021
Question: Who is responsible for administering and enforcing party income/funding regulations at national level?
Answer(s):
a . National Electoral Management body
Comments: a) Across the National Office of Financing of Political Parties and Electoral Campaigns.
Source: LOSPP, art. 201
Verified: 2003/08/01
Vote Counting
VC001
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Single ballot (all registered parties listed)
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC002
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
s . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitución, art. 186
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC003
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
a . Single ballot (all registered parties/candidates listed)
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC004
Votes are sorted/counted at
Question: Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
Answer:
a . The polling stations
Comments: Votes are counted and tallied automatically.
Source: Electoral Law: “Ley Orgánica de Procesos Electorales”, art. 139, 162: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-ley-organica-procesos-electorales-2009/
Verified: 2020/11/15
VC005
Question: What procedures are used in the initial count?
Answer(s):
b . Preliminary count of all ballots in ballot box c . Tally of voters who voted k . Counted by machine
Comments:
Source: LOSPP, art. 168 y 172
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC006
Question: Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
Answer(s):
a . Polling centre (several polling stations in same building) f . Other
Comments: In the case presidential election they are transmitted to the National Electoral Advice for his totalización.
In case of Deputies to the Congress to the Electoral Regional Meetings.
Source: LOSPP, art. 176
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC007
Question: At what levels are seats allocated?
Answer(s):
d . National level
Comments:
Source: LOSPP, art. 179
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC008
Question: How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?
Answer(s):
h . Other
Comments: h) For the conduit that indicates the National Electoral Advice.
Source: LOSPP, art. 173
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC009
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what is transported?
Answer(s):
f . Certificate of result
Comments:
Source: LOSPP, art. 173
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC011
When are ballots recounted?
Question: Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
Answer(s):
a . Never recounted
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law: “Ley Orgánica de Procesos Electorales”, art. 139–144: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-ley-organica-procesos-electorales-2009/
Verified: 2020/11/15
VC012
Question: If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC013
Question: If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC014
Question: If recounted, who conducts the recount?
Answer(s):
j . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC015
Question: Are preliminary results announced?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: CNE
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC017
Question: Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: The National Electoral Advice will order to publish the results of the President's elections of the Republic and Delegated in the Official Gazette of the Republic of Venezuela.
Source: LOSPP, art. 180
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC018
Question: How long after the close of polls is the certified results publicly announced? (if there is no legal requirement enter the average time)
Answer:
b . days:
Comments: b) 30 days following the proclamation of the elect candidates.
Source: LOSPP, art. 180
Verified: 2009/11/04
Media and Elections
ME037
Criteria for allocating free broadcast time
Question: What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?
Answer(s):
a . Equal regardless of size of party and previous performance e . As agreed by special committee
Comments:
Source: Electoral Branch Law: “Ley Orgánica del Poder Electoral”, art. 78: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/leyes-electorales/venezuela-ley-organica-poder-electoral-2002/
Verified: 2020/11/15
ME059
Television debates
Question: Are televised debates between candidates or party representatives normally conducted?
Answer(s):
b . Yes, in legislative elections
Comments:
Source: HispanTV: “Se realiza primer debate de candidatos parlamentarios de Venezuela”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=06biU5RumRI
Verified: 2020/11/15
ME062
Blackout period for release of opinion poll results.
Question: What is the blackout period, if any, during which results of pre-election opinion polls may not be released to the public?
Answer:
d . 6-7 days
Comments: It is prohibited to publish or disclose, through any social media or other media, during the period of seven days prior to the polling day, the results of surveys or opinion polls regarding the preferences or voting intentions of voters.
Source: Electoral Branch Law: “Ley Orgánica del Poder Electoral”, art. 82: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/leyes-electorales/venezuela-ley-organica-poder-electoral-2002/
Verified: 2020/11/15
ME080
Question: Is there a maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Although there are no limits in terms of the amount to be expended, there are limits to the amount of time or space that can be purchased.
Source: Campaign Regulations: “Reglamento especial sobre campaña y propaganda electoral para las elecciones de la Asamblea Nacional 2020”: aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-reglamento-especial-campana-propaganda-electoral-2020/
Verified: 2020/11/15
Direct Democracy
DD002
Direct Democracy Provisions (National Level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy Procedures at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Constitution: “Constitución de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela”, arts. 16 (2), 71, 72, 73, 74, 197, 204 (5, 7), 205, 218, 341 (3, 4), 344: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-constitucion-reforma-2009/
Verified: 2020/11/15
DD003
Mandatory referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Mandatory Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: The Constitutional Reform Bill passed by the National Assembly shall be submitted to a referendum within thirty days from its approval.
Source: Constitution: “Constitución de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela”, arts. 218, 344: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-constitucion-reforma-2009/
Verified: 2020/11/15
DD004
Optional referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Optional Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Constitution: “Constitución de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela”, arts. 16 (2), 71, 72, 73, 197: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-constitucion-reforma-2009/
Verified: 2020/11/15
DD005
Citizens' Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Citizen’s Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Constitution: “Constitución de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela”, arts. 74, 197, 204 (5, 7), 205, 341: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-constitucion-reforma-2009/
Verified: 2020/11/15
DD006
Agenda Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Agenda Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Constitution: “Constitución de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela”, arts. 204 (5, 7), 205: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-constitucion-reforma-2009/
Verified: 2020/11/15
DD007
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Recalls at national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Constitution: “Constitución de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela”, arts. 197, 198: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-constitucion-reforma-2009/
Verified: 2020/11/15
DD008
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for mandatory referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
a . Constitutional
Comments:
Source: Art. 344, Constitución
Verified: 2006/04/07
DD009
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for optional referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
b . Specific laws/legislation
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/04/07
DD010
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for citizens' initiatives at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
b . Specific laws/legislation
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/04/07
DD011
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for agenda initiatives at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/04/07
DD012
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for recalls at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
a . Constitutional
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/04/07
DD015
Question: Who is responsible for managing the administration of direct democracy mechanisms at the national level?
Answer(s):
b . Independent electoral commission
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/04/07
DD016
Question: Does this agency/department also manage the administration of national elections?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/04/07
DD017
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
a . Yes, in all regions/states/provinces
Comments:
Source: Art 344, Constitución
Verified: 2006/04/07
DD018
Question: Are optional referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
a . Yes, in all regions/states/provinces
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/04/07
DD019
Question: Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
a . Yes, in all regions/states/provinces
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/04/07
DD020
Question: Are agenda initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/04/07
DD021
Question: Are recalls currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
a . Yes, in all regions/states/provinces
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/04/07
DD022
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/04/07
DD023
Question: Are optional referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
a . Yes, in all municipalities/districts/communes
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/04/07
DD024
Question: Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/04/07
DD025
Question: Are agenda initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/04/07
DD026
Question: Are recalls currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
a . Yes, in all municipalities/districts/communes
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/04/07
DD027
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are mandatory at the national level?
Answer(s):
a . Constitutional amendments
Comments:
Source: Art. 344, Constitución
Verified: 2006/04/07
DD028
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are optional at the national level?
Answer(s):
b . Adoption of international treaties j . Other (specify)
Comments:
Source: Art. 71-74, Constitución.
Verified: 2006/04/07
DD029
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of referendums at the national level?
Answer(s):
e . Conflict between constitutional organs h . Taxes and public expenditure commitments i . Other public policy issues j . Other (specify)
Comments:
Source: Art. 74, Constitución
Art. 185, Ley Org. Sufragio y Participación Política.
Verified: 2006/04/07
DD030
Question: Which issues, if any, maybe the subject of sub-national referendums regulated at the national level?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/04/07
DD031
Question: Who can initiate a referendum at the national level?
Answer(s):
c . President d . Legislative majority e . Registered electors
Comments:
Source: Art. 181, Ley Org. Suf. y Participación Política.
Art. 71, Constitución
Verified: 2006/04/07
DD036
Question: Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for mandatory referendums?
Answer(s):
b . Independent electoral commission
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/04/07
DD048
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of an agenda initiative at the national level?
Answer(s):
l . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/04/07
DD129
Question: Are the results of referenda always binding, never binding or sometimes binding?
Answer:
a . Always binding
Comments:
Source: Constitution: “Constitución de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela”, arts. 16 (2), 71, 72, 73, 74, 197, 204 (5, 7), 205, 218, 341 (3, 4), 344: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-constitucion-reforma-2009/
Verified: 2020/11/15
DD130
Question: Are the types of issues to vote upon in a referendum constitutional changes only, other issues only or both constitutional and other issues?
Answer:
c . Both constitutional and other issues
Comments:
Source: Constitution: “Constitución de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela”, arts. 16 (2), 71, 72, 73, 74, 197, 204 (5, 7), 205, 218, 341 (3, 4), 344: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-constitucion-reforma-2009/
Verified: 2020/11/15
DD131
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy at sub-national levels (regional or local)?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Constitution: “Constitución de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela”, arts. 71, 206: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-constitucion-reforma-2009/ ;
Organic Law on Municipal Authorities (Ley Orgánica del Poder Público Municipal) (2015), art. 10, 15, 22, 259 (8), 274: http://www.cne.gob.ve/web/normativa_electoral/ley_organica_regimen_municipal/indice.php
Verified: 2020/11/15
DD132
Year of introducing Direct Democracy
Question: What year were the first Direct Democracy mechanisms introduced to the legal framework?
Answer:
e . 1961-1980
Comments: Agenda Initiative introduced 1961
Source: Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) (http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm)
Verified: 2009/08/18
DD133
Question: What year was the first referendum/initiative held?
Answer:
d . 1941-1960
Comments: 1957
Source: Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) (http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm)
Verified: 2009/08/18
Voting Operations
VO002
Question: Is there a code of conduct for election officials?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: Programs of instruction for members of Tables exist and Electoral Meetings, and educational delivery of manuals and of procedure.
Source: LOSPP, art. 46
Verified: 2003/09/25
VO003
Electors vote at
Question: Where can electors vote?
Answer(s):
a . At a specified polling station in the locality where they are registered at national elections
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law: “Ley Orgánica de Procesos Electorales”, art. 123: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-ley-organica-procesos-electorales-2009/
Verified: 2020/11/15
VO004
Voting outside the country is permitted for
Question: Who can vote from outside the country?
Answer(s):
b . Citizens residing outside the country f . Diplomatic staff
Comments: Citizens must provide proof that they are legal residents of the country where they register.
Source: Electoral Law: “Ley Orgánica de Procesos Electorales”, art. 124: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-ley-organica-procesos-electorales-2009/
Verified: 2020/11/15
VO005
Locations for voting outside of the country
Question: If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
Answer(s):
a . Embassies b . Consulates
Comments: The National Electoral Council must issue reglamentations about this matter.
Source: Electoral Law: “Ley Orgánica de Procesos Electorales”, art. 124: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-ley-organica-procesos-electorales-2009/
Verified: 2020/11/15
VO006
Question: Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?
Answer:
a . No
Comments:
Source: LOSPP, art. 158
Verified: 2003/09/25
VO007
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), how may they do so?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: LOSPP, art. 158
Verified: 2003/09/25
VO008
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), specify who:
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: LOSPP, art. 158
Verified: 2003/09/25
VO009
Question: Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: LOSPP, art. 67
Verified: 2003/10/01
VO011
Voting method
Question: How do electors cast their votes?
Answer(s):
d . Electronic voting machine
Comments: Exceptionally, ballots are manually marked.
Source: Electoral Law: “Ley Orgánica de Procesos Electorales”, art. 121, 133: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-ley-organica-procesos-electorales-2009/
Verified: 2020/11/15
Forgot your password?
