Representatives from thirty-one countries convened to express deep concerns about the situation in Venezuela, affirming the need for electoral transparency, human rights protection, and the release of arbitrarily detained individuals following recent elections. They called for immediate actions to uphold democratic principles and facilitate constructive dialogue among political leaders.
On the margins of the UN General Assembly, representatives from thirty-one nations expressed profound concerns regarding the deteriorating situation in Venezuela. They emphasized the importance of democratic principles and human rights. Acknowledging the significant participation of over twelve million citizens in the presidential elections held on July 28, the nations implored that the election results be respected and subjected to an independent verification process.
Despite the Venezuelan citizens’ courageous turnout, nearly two months have elapsed with unanswered calls for electoral transparency, particularly concerning the National Electoral Commission’s refusal to disclose polling results. The absence of clarity has drawn serious apprehensions from international observers regarding the integrity of the electoral process.
The signatory countries condemned the rampant repression and human rights violations reported post-election, which include arbitrary detentions, threats against the opposition, and excessive force directed at peaceful demonstrators. They noted the troubling case of presidential candidate Edmundo González Urrutia, who was compelled to flee the country amid a politically driven arrest warrant following his apparent electoral success.
The joint statement called for the immediate release of all arbitrarily detained individuals and emphasized the necessity for Venezuelans to exercise their political expressions freely and peacefully. Additionally, the nations called for an end to political violence, harassment, and the reinstatement of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in Venezuela to oversee human rights compliance.
Furthermore, they urged the Venezuelan government to honor its international obligations, particularly in providing safe passage to six asylum seekers currently protected by the Argentine embassy. The countries reiterated the need for a constructive dialogue among Venezuelan political leaders to resolve the political deadlock peacefully, restore democratic institutions, and align with the electorate’s will as demonstrated on July 28.
Ultimately, the statement underscored solidarity with Venezuelans aiming for a more democratic and secure future amidst ongoing threats to their well-being and liberties.
The situation in Venezuela has been a point of international concern due to allegations of electoral fraud, human rights abuses, and political oppression. The governmental structure has faced criticism from both domestic and global entities, including calls for greater transparency and accountability in electoral processes. The July 28 presidential elections highlighted significant public engagement despite these challenges, yet the aftermath has been marred by reports of repression against opposition voices. This joint statement reflects a coalition of nations that advocates for democratic values and human rights in an increasingly volatile political climate in Venezuela.
The joint statement from thirty-one countries highlights the urgent need for respect toward democratic principles, transparency in electoral processes, and the cessation of human rights violations in Venezuela. The statement articulates strong support for the Venezuelan populace, emphasizing the importance of dialogue among political leaders to navigate the country’s challenges constructively. As the international community closely monitors the developments in Venezuela, the need for adherence to human rights and democratic norms remains paramount.
Original Source: cl.usembassy.gov
