Bolivarian Circles

The Bolivarian Circles (Spanish Círculos bolivarianos ) form a political and social organization in Venezuela, which was initiated by the President Hugo Chávez in 2001 and about 2.3 million members. They are named after Simón Bolívar, the independence fighters, on the back is the transformation of most of the Spanish colonies to independent states.

The circles are neighborhood councils, which are intended to reorganize the Venezuelan society a democratic basis and promote the Bolivarian revolution. These councils were initially highly dependent on the Chavez government ' and its bureaucracy, the first candidates for the councils particular, under which you could choose. Spontaneous, challenging acts as the leaving of the Councils to choose their own candidates, gave them independence, and they made a powerful social force (Russian: Совет = Rat) with that of the Soviets in pre-revolutionary Russia is comparable. They are often regarded as the most revolutionary wing of Venezuelan society. They occupy factories and large possessions and fight against bureaucrats belonging to the reformist wing. Perhaps alluding to this role is one of their slogans: " Revolution, with or without Chávez ". Thus, they also suggest that their commitment to building a socialist or even communist society is not bound to any charismatic politician.

Lately, Chavez has these positions, which were originally left as his own, no longer attacked and even some ideas that came from the circles were adopted. He nationalized example the paper mill Venepal ( see Article Hugo Chávez ), and expressed that socialism is the only way forward.

Venezuelans who oppose Chávez, keep these circles for dangerous organizations that may carry out terrorist acts.