In a compelling appeal, independent UN experts have urged the Venezuelan government to confront the troubling phenomenon of enforced disappearances tied to the unrest surrounding the presidential elections of July 2024 and the inauguration in January 2025. With an alarming rise in such disappearances, particularly among opposition figures and human rights defenders, the experts underscore that these actions instil fear and hinder active political engagement.
The Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances has raised alarms about the troubling involvement of Venezuelan security forces, notably the Bolivarian Intelligence Service (SEBIN) and the General Directorate of Military Counter-Intelligence (DGCIM). They depict a systematic pattern where authorities, especially military and intelligence bodies, detain individuals while remaining silent on their whereabouts, effectively silencing dissent.
The group also expressed disbelief at Venezuela’s continued failure to address the urgent calls of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR), dismissing numerous habeas corpus requests from families searching for their loved ones. They emphasized the need for accountability and eradication of these grave human rights violations.
Despite their efforts to engage with the Venezuelan government, the UN experts have been systematically denied access to the country. They remind that individuals in custody are entitled to fundamental legal protections, including communication with family and legal representatives, and to be brought before a competent judicial authority swiftly.
As a signatory of the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance, Venezuela carries the international obligation to criminalize enforced disappearance. The Convention defines such acts as the deprivation of liberty sanctioned by the state, followed by a disregarding of the disappeared’s fate.
With elections looming and a nation on edge, the UN experts demand immediate action to safeguard human rights and restore lawful governance. Their willingness to assist the Venezuelan government in aligning with international human rights standards stands firm, encouraging authorities to ensure an environment free from repression and intimidation.
The atmosphere in Venezuela remains charged following allegations of electoral malpractice post-Nicolas Maduro’s re-election, resulting in public outcry and protests. Reports by the IACHR reveal extensive human rights abuses during the crackdown on dissent, urging the government to respect the fundamental right to life as the presidential inauguration approaches.
UN experts have called on Venezuela to tackle the rising issue of enforced disappearances linked to election protests. They highlight the government’s failure to protect opposition figures and activists, noting systematic detentions by security forces. The experts also stress the need for adherence to human rights obligations and demand accountability for violations as the country faces mounting unrest ahead of elections.
The UN experts’ appeal highlights Venezuela’s urgent need to address enforced disappearances related to political dissent, particularly in light of the upcoming elections. Their strong call for accountability reflects a broader concern for human rights and democratic freedoms in the country. Providing timely information on victims and ensuring their legal rights are respected must be paramount as Venezuela grapples with turmoil and potential electoral unrest.
Original Source: www.jurist.org
