Statement at the 61st Session of the UN Human Rights Council
Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela
Delivered by Calixto Ignacio Ávila Rincón, PROVEA
Mr President,
CIVICUS and PROVEA welcome the update by the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission (FFM). In Venezuela, the repressive bodies and the legal framework used to persecute political opponents, remain unchanged. Likewise, the justice system that has perpetuated impunity continues to operate intact, preventing victims from accessing effective legal remedies and implementing a policy of persecution. A recent example is the appointment by the National Assembly of the former Attorney General of the Republic, responsible for that policy of persecution, to the position of Ombudsperson.
The adoption of the Amnesty Law constitutes a positive step, however, it is exclusionary, as it leaves out military personnel and civilians accused of the offence of military rebellion. Official spokespersons have confirmed that more than 11,000 people have been released under reporting requirements and without the right to appoint legal counsel of their choosing. Many victims of arbitrary detention are now making their cases public after years of silence, having previously feared reprisals.
The regressive Anti-NGO Law remains in force and must be repealed without delay.
We urge States to call for the full and immediate release of all persons detained for political reasons, the dismantling of the apparatus of political persecution and its legal framework, and the granting of full, safe and independent access to the country for OHCHR and the FFM.
We thank you.
