Severe crisis is forcing Venezuelans to reinvent themselves

Americas Now

Bartering has become one of the ways Venezuelans helps themselves and others

It’s in its seventh year of recession – one of the steepest ever recorded in the world. Its economy is partially sanctioned by the U.S. and it’s also had to contend with the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic. The last 12 months have been exceptionally tough for citizens of Venezuela.

 Many thousands have emigrated. Those who’ve stayed behind have had to adapt. Some have taken up new trades. Others have sold treasured possessions.

Stephen Gibbs sent this special report from Caracas.