Burson Forms Venezuela Unit Amid Turmoil

Amid economic and political crisis in Venezuela, Burson-Marsteller has formed a specialty unit to advise clients on the business climate in the country.

The so-called "specialty team" includes staff from its Caracas office, Latin American regional team in Miami, and its public affairs and crisis pros in Washington and New York.

"Collectively, we have a unique perspective on and deep insights into the local, regional and global environment in which our clients are making critical business decisions, and can offer counsel on the development of crisis plans and key messaging as well as support labor, government or media relations efforts," executive VP and Miami managing director Jorge Ortega said in an email.

Severe food shortages in the country sparked riots in June as the New York Times declared, "Venezuela is convulsing from hunger." The Times reported June 20 that an economic collapse of recent years left the country unable to produce enough food on its own or import what it needs, a dire situation that led to an emergency decree from President Nicolas Maduro and militarization of cities.

Ortega said that while the international community addresses the economic, political and social environment in Venezuela, companies should assess their short, medium and long-term situations.