Following Nicolas Maduro’s contested re-election in July, Venezuela has been engulfed in a wave of repression, with 25 people dead and 2,400 in jail as a result. The United Nations Human Rights Council reported that Maduro’s victory led to a crackdown on opposition figures and protesters, creating one of the most severe human rights crises in the country’s recent history. The government’s response to dissent has been described as an intensification of repressive measures and a deterioration of the rule of law.
The fact-finding mission noted that 24 out of the 25 deaths during the protests were due to gunshot wounds, many of which were aimed at the neck. Additionally, over 100 children were among those arrested, accused of terrorism and incitement to hatred. The report highlighted serious violations of due process in these arrests, indicating unprecedented levels of repression in the country. The response to the protests marked a troubling milestone in the government’s handling of dissent.
Maduro’s victory in the election has been disputed by opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez, whose supporters accused the governing party of electoral fraud. The opposition claimed Gonzalez had won based on their tally, leading to heightened tensions in the country. The US imposed new sanctions on Venezuelan officials for their role in certifying Maduro’s victory, further worsening the situation. Maduro’s government has blamed the opposition for the deaths during the demonstrations and branded the protesters as extremists and fascists.
Allegations of forced disappearances, cruel treatment, and torture have increased in Venezuela since 2019, according to the fact-finding mission. The mission, established by the OHCHR in 2019, has had its mandate extended until September, despite the government in Caracas refusing to cooperate. The lack of transparency and accountability in Venezuela’s response to dissent has raised concerns about the human rights situation in the country. The growing repression and violence following the contested election have painted a grim picture of the state of democracy and rule of law in Venezuela.
