Simulation

In today's era, simulation has intricately woven itself into our lives—not only in the technological realm, where algorithms create virtual worlds nearly indistinguishable from everyday reality but also in the sphere of social behavior. Social media, in particular, has given rise to a simulation of perfect lives, where some sacrifice stability, and others jeopardize their future to emulate an unattainable ideal modeled on their mobile devices.

However, beyond these manifestations, I want to draw attention to a more serious form of simulation: the democratic simulation perpetrated by dictatorships and tyrannies worldwide. Why, if you feel no remorse for torturing and subjugating your population, imposing arbitrary laws, and undermining the separation of powers, do you self-proclaim as a democratic president instead of assuming a title more fitting to your authoritarian actions?

This simulation is not exclusive to dictatorial regimes; it is also observed in Western countries. We recall the assertive actions of leaders like Macron in France or Trudeau in Canada, criminalizing those who oppose mandatory vaccination. Meanwhile, they present themselves as champions of freedom, creating an evident dissonance between rhetoric and reality.

In Latin American dictatorships like Cuba, Nicaragua, and Venezuela, the democratic simulation reaches new heights. Although they organize periodic elections, these are mere pantomimes, as no citizen has the opportunity to participate in a truly free, fair, and transparent election. Political participation is conditioned on regime approval, and those who dare to run for office face persecution, arrest, and even violence.

So, what is the reason behind this democratic facade? Why do leaders like Maduro participate in elections when they have shown disdain for the will of the people? Perhaps it's a strategy to maintain an appearance of legitimacy or, as I suggest, a manifestation of ego—a need to flaunt democratic titles while acting as dictators.

In a global context, it is concerning to witness concessions by the U.S. administration toward these dictatorships, simulating a transition to democracy without any real evidence of democratization. As a Venezuelan, it is our duty to confront reality and denounce those who, aware of the falsehood of this simulation, allow tyrannies to present themselves as examples of democracy. Lies in the political realm weaken the foundations of any society and hinder any projection of an authentic future.

Julio César Rivas
@JULIOCESARRIVAS