Many young, independent workers in Venezuela are opting out of the social security system due to a combination of factors including lack of information, political distrust, and the system’s overall instability. Years of institutional collapse have severely devalued pensions, leading to widespread skepticism about their future viability. This has resulted in a situation where individuals are essentially managing their own human resources, including social security contributions, or foregoing them altogether. The article highlights a growing trend of self-reliance born out of necessity, as traditional safety nets prove unreliable. Many prioritize immediate needs over long-term pension planning, expressing a lack of faith in the system’s ability to provide for their future. This trend reflects a broader crisis of confidence in Venezuelan institutions and a growing sense of individual responsibility for financial security. The piece originates from the Venezuelan news outlet, TalCual.