WOLA denounces the Venezuelan government’s harassment of human rights defenders, particularly targeting PROVEA and its leader Óscar Murillo. Following a controversial election, state authorities have heightened threats against those demanding accountability, utilizing vague legal frameworks as tools of repression. WOLA shows solidarity with PROVEA and calls on the international community to protect human rights in Venezuela.
The Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA) vehemently condemns the Venezuelan government’s increasing hostility towards human rights defenders and civil society entities. Recently, Óscar Murillo, a journalist and the General Coordinator of PROVEA, received a questionable subpoena from the CICPC, allegedly connected to a vague investigation tied to the Law Against Hate for Peaceful Coexistence and Tolerance. This action is part of a disturbing trend aimed at silencing advocates for basic rights amid a broader crackdown following the controversial July 28 elections.
Murillo’s case, an emblematic display of state repression, reflects a climate where accountability is stifled. Authorities have intensified direct threats, notably toward those demanding answers regarding tragic incidents like Edwin Santos’s death. Diosdado Cabello has publicly targeted PROVEA in an October broadcast, further indicating the state’s intimidation tactics. This crackdown not only violates fundamental rights but also represents a broader erosion of democracy in Venezuela, where laws are twisted to suppress dissent instead of protecting individuals.
WOLA stands firmly alongside PROVEA, an unwavering ally and recipient of WOLA’s 2024 Human Rights Award, recognizing their bravery in advocating for justice during increasing turmoil. With Murillo accompanied by fellow PROVEA members during his citation, this collaboration symbolizes their solidarity. However, worry looms over Murillo’s safety amidst systematic repression against dissenters, showing little regard for human life or values.
WOLA urges the international community to vocally denounce such abuses and reinforce demands for justice and protection for human rights defenders in Venezuela. The resilience of civil society is paramount as they navigate these treacherous waters, daring to uphold truth and justice even when labeled criminal. In this chilling atmosphere, the pursuit of human dignity must never face oppression from state-sanctioned fear.
In recent months, Venezuela has witnessed a dramatic increase in state-sponsored harassment aimed at those who advocate for human rights. Following the contested elections in July, the government has escalated its attacks against civil society, particularly targeting organizations like PROVEA that hold them accountable. The overarching patterns reveal a systematic effort to stifle dissent and manipulate the narrative around dissenters by misusing legislation initially designed to promote tolerance. WOLA’s response highlights the severity of this issue, as those working towards justice face tangible risks to their safety and rights.
The situation for human rights defenders in Venezuela remains critically alarming, with the government’s actions against PROVEA serving as a stark indicator of the broader repression faced by civil society. With unwavering support for Óscar Murillo and his team, WOLA emphasizes the urgent need for collective international action in favor of justice and accountability in Venezuela. The pursuit of truth and the defense of human rights should never be criminalized. As the darkness of oppression looms, the light of steadfast advocacy shines through, reminding us all of the importance of defending democracy and human dignity.
Original Source: www.wola.org
