Jews Without Visas and Venezuelans Without Passports: Alberto Zérega Fombona and Domestic Politics and Foreign Affairs of Venezuela, 1939–1941

Abstract

This article examines the actions of Alberto Zérega Fombona, Venezuela’s Minister to Germany between 1939 and 1941, in the context of the country’s migration policy during the rise of Nazism. Based on diplomatic reports, two main issues are highlighted: the denial of passports to Venezuelans with dual nationality attempting to flee the European conflict, and the use of forged visas by German Jews seeking entry into Venezuela, facilitated by agencies such as Palestina & Orient Lloyd. The article reveals how legalistic criteria, combined with racial prejudices and diplomatic interests, led to decisions that denied protection to individuals persecuted by the Nazi regime. While the ethical stance of these decisions is questioned, the article also acknowledges the complex intersection between foreign policy, national security, and humanitarianism.