Timeline, etc, for Venezuela
Population of Venezuela was growing steadily (in theory) for many decades:
https://vividmaps.com/venezuelans-abroad/#google_vignette
Then… (quoting AI)
Venezuela's population dropped starting around 2015 due to a massive exodus, driven by a severe humanitarian and economic crisis including hyperinflation, food/medicine shortages, political turmoil, crime, and lack of opportunities under President Maduro, forcing millions to flee, primarily to neighboring Latin American countries, in search of survival and better living conditions.
Key Drivers of the Exodus:
Economic Collapse & Hyperinflation: Unsustainable government spending, price controls, and reliance on oil led to economic ruin, hyperinflation, and drastically devalued salaries, making basic necessities unaffordable.
Shortages: Severe lack of food, medicine, and essential services pushed people to leave.
Political Instability: Increased unrest following the death of Hugo Chávez and election of Nicolás Maduro intensified the crisis, with the government's ineffective response exacerbating problems.
Deteriorating Quality of Life: Crime, violence, and a general breakdown of living standards became rampant, reducing quality of life significantly.
Lack of Opportunity: The collapse meant few jobs and low wages, prompting skilled workers and youth to seek prospects elsewhere.
This mass migration, known as the Venezuelan refugee crisis, became one of the largest displacement crises globally, with millions fleeing their homes.
The exodus targeted neighboring countries, with many migrants sending remittances back to support family members who remained, often elderly relatives.
Lots of people have left Venezuela: Map of Diaspora:
https://vividmaps.com/venezuelans-abroad/#google_vignette