Former Venezuelan Governor of Carabobo, Henrique Fernando Salas-Römer, Jr., addresses a pressing question in Latin American politics: Why does democracy collapse so effortlessly while totalitarian regimes appear immune to the ravages of time and history?
In a candid conversation with journalist Tania Costa on CiberCuba, Salas-Römer Jr. reflected, "I've always wondered why democracy is so fragile and easily uprooted, while totalitarian regimes seem almost indestructible. What are we doing wrong in democracies that makes them so weak? They vanish with a snap of the fingers, whereas these regimes endure."
Salas-Römer Jr. suggests that the root of the problem is cultural. "People tend to take freedom for granted, assuming it came without a cost. But when totalitarian regimes emerge, they realize that liberty has its price," he explained.
The Current Regional Crisis
The former governor's insights come amid a dual crisis in the region: Cuba experienced its seventh nationwide blackout in 18 months on July 6, 2026, and Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro, known as "El Cangrejo" and the grandson of Raúl Castro, offered to negotiate Cuba's future with Trump in an interview with USA Today, provided the revolution remains intact.
Salas-Römer Jr. warns that both the Cuban and Venezuelan regimes are operating in "survival mode," aware of their waning control over their populations. In Venezuela, he points out the concerning tactics of Delcy Rodríguez, who became interim president on January 5, 2026, following Nicolás Maduro's capture. "I worry that Delcy Rodríguez and her allies are using apparent stabilization as a means to buy time, hoping to remain indefinitely, only for a new democratic government to shatter Venezuelans' hopes," he said.
Historical Context and International Influence
He cites the rapprochement initiated by President Barack Obama towards Cuba in December 2014 as a cautionary tale. "During Obama's era, many believed a solution was being sought for Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua. However, it seemed to strengthen bonds rather than resolve issues," Salas-Römer Jr. remarked.
Furthermore, he highlights the invisible connections between the São Paulo Forum and the Socialist International, financed by well-known figures like George Soros. "These networks, with wealthy foundations backing them, promote an agenda that undermines our Judeo-Christian culture and weakens family structures," he asserted.
Criticism of U.S. Political Dynamics
The ex-governor also criticizes the leadership of the U.S. Democratic Party for being, in his view, "dominated by individuals deeply aligned with radical leftist ideas that don't address the core issues, such as economic and food security." He agrees with Costa that Cuban-Americans are unlikely to support Democrats, as they "do little to garner Cuban votes."
Summarizing the gravity of the situation, Costa stated, "We are all on edge... Watching what unfolds in Venezuela because that experience will likely be mirrored in Cuba."
Understanding the Resilience of Totalitarian Regimes
Why do totalitarian regimes seem to endure longer than democratic ones?
Totalitarian regimes often maintain power by suppressing dissent and controlling key resources, making them appear more stable over time compared to democracies, which rely on public support and accountability.
What cultural factors contribute to the fragility of democracies?
A lack of appreciation for the sacrifices needed to secure and maintain freedom can lead to complacency in democratic societies, making them vulnerable to internal and external threats.
How do international influences affect the persistence of authoritarian regimes?
International networks and financial support from influential entities can bolster authoritarian regimes, providing them with the resources to resist change and maintain control.