Venezuela’s repressive state apparatus ‘intact’ despite leadership change
“The Structures that have suffered years of persecution have not been dismantled, nor have any state policies been announced to initiate that process,” the International Fact-Finding Mission for Venezuela said in a statement released Wednesday.
The mission was set up to assess alleged human rights violations in Venezuela since 2014.
Since Maduro’s seizure on January 3, the… Council for Human Rights-appointed investigators have received reports from at least 87 new politically motivated detentionsThis indicates that the practice of silencing dissent continues under the current government.
“New cases of human rights violations are a sober reminder that the… extensive legal and institutional machinery that has facilitated the commission of gross human rights violations and international crimes remain intact”, said independent expert María Eloisa Quintero.
‘No signs’ of change
Government and military officials previously identified by the UN investigation as responsible for crimes against humanity remain in power. “There are There are no signs that the current authorities intend to bring these individuals to justice.” said Alex Neve, another expert member.
“Venezuela cannot be said to be truly on the path to human rights reform unless and until that repressive apparatus is dismantled,” Ms. Quintero said.
Release of prisoners
On February 20, an amnesty law aimed at granting immediate clemency to people imprisoned for participating in political protests or criticizing public figures was passed and “welcomed” by the UN Commission of Experts.
The amnesty is aimed at promoting peace, democratic coexistence and national reconciliation in the South American country.
According to international media reports, between Maduro’s arrest and early March approximately 621 political prisoners have been released.
‘Concerns’ about the amnesty law
Nevertheless, a large number of individuals remain imprisoned for political reasons and there are “concerns about the lack of transparency with which this process is being conducted,” Ms. Quintero said.
The mission noted that the legislation was passed without inclusive public consultation, and lacks essential mechanisms for truth, accountability and redress.
“It is the duty of the authorities to provide detailed information on the number and identity of those detained and those released. We call for the immediate release of all remaining political prisoners, including dozens of foreign and dual nationals,” the mission urged.
Researchers also expressed concern about the continued mobilization of armed civilian groups and the continued harassment of opposition figures and journalists.
‘Crucial moment for victims’
“The international community must maintain its focus on Venezuela to ensure that a transition takes place in the country that leads to real institutional reforms and an end to the culture of fear,” the mission said.
With over 8.7 million Venezuelans, including thousands of refugees, living outside the country today, “This is also a crucial moment for victims”, researchers underlined.
“Now more than ever there is a need to further this research work identify the patterns, actors, institutions and alleged perpetrators associated with these violations.” said Mrs. Quintero.
