On 24 June 2026, Venezuela was struck by an earthquake measuring 7.2 in magnitude.  It was followed, less than a minute later,  by a second quake of 7.5 in magnitude. According to the latest reports, at least 1,500 people have lost their lives and thousands have been injured. The number of casualties is expected to rise significantly as rescue operations continue.

The earthquake hit a country already facing challenging conditions. Political unrest, increasing crime rates, and the activities of organised criminal groups are part of everyday life in many regions of the country. Inflation remains high, and access to basic food supplies and fuel is limited.

The Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Mission  (Felm) has been active in the country since 1989. Felm supports the work of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in the country, child protection efforts, and the advancement of women’s rights. The organization has allocated €120,000 from its disaster relief fund to assist those affected by the earthquake in Venezuela. The support is distributed through Felm's local partners.

Further information:

Matti Peiponen, Expert, International and Multicultural Work
Espoo Parish Union
matti.peiponen@evl.fi
+358 50 381 7629