Venezuela: IACHR and Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression Condemn Serious Human Rights Violations During Post-Election Protest Repression

July 31, 2024

Washington, D.C. - The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) and its Office of the Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression (RELE) condemn the repression against demonstrators in Venezuela following the recent elections. They urge the Venezuelan State to respect the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and journalistic work, and to ensure the safety of demonstrators.

Since the end of the election day on July 28, civil society organizations have recorded at least 300 spontaneous protests across the country. These protests demand attention to serious irregularities in the vote count, lack of transparency, electoral fraud, and obstacles to citizen audits. Reports indicate that at least 115 of these demonstrations have been violently repressed by the state, following the candidate Nicolás Maduro's warning of a potential "bloodbath and civil war in the country."

The repression mirrors patterns observed in 2014 and 2017, occurring within a context of absent rule of law and democracy. Armed civilian groups known as "colectivos," reportedly acting with state consent under the "Popular System of Protection for Peace," have participated in these actions. Their involvement could lead to international responsibility for the State due to its tolerance, collaboration, or acquiescence in potential massive human rights violations.

In connection with the right to life and personal integrity, civil society organizations report over 11 deaths resulting from violent repression, most of whom are young people, including at least two adolescents. Preliminary information indicates that at least nine persons were shot, some in the back or head, suggesting possible extrajudicial executions. Additionally, over 40 people have been seriously injured.

Regarding the right to liberty, the Public Prosecutor's Office reported that at least 1.062 people have been arrested. Organizations highlight the detention of adolescents and patterns of persecution against students and university leaders. The detainees face charges of terrorism and other crimes and have reportedly been denied the right to choose their legal defense, contravening due process and the right to defense. The IACHR has also received reports of at least 11 forced disappearances.

Political persecution patterns have intensified, with opposition leaders threatened and indicted. Opposition leader Freddy Superlano was arrested and allegedly tortured by Venezuelan authorities on July 30. María Corina Machado, under IACHR precautionary measures since 2019, has faced intimidation for denouncing vote count irregularities. Threats have also been directed at the Argentine Embassy residence, where at least six opposition members are refugees, raising concerns about the inviolability of embassies.

Freedom of expression has been compromised, with reports of media blockades, attacks and arbitrary detentions of journalists. At least 60 incidents of attacks on freedom of expression have been recorded, including the injury of journalist Jesús Romero while covering demonstrations. Five journalists were detained, and at least four have been deported.

The IACHR reaffirms that peaceful protest is a fundamental element of democratic societies governed by human rights. This in compliance with the principles of legality, absolute necessity and proportionality in the use of force. Firearms should be excluded from social protest control operations to prevent lethal violence.

The Venezuelan authorities must, in good faith and in compliance with international human rights obligations:

1. Immediately cease practices that violate human rights.
2. Conduct independent, impartial and transparent investigations, and punish those material and intellectually responsible.
3. Refrain from criminalizing and release protest participants and supporters, including journalists.
4. Urgently restore democratic order and the rule of law, ensuring the independence of the National Electoral Council.

Finally, the IACHR calls on the inter-American community to remain vigilant about Venezuela's escalating institutional crisis and to engage in bilateral and multilateral diplomatic efforts. The IACHR offers to facilitate high-level dialogue to support a lasting solution to the country's long-standing democratic and human rights crisis.

The Office of the Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression, established by the IACHR, promotes the defense of the right to freedom of thought and expression, crucial for the consolidation and development of democracy.

The IACHR, a principal and autonomous organ of the Organization of American States (OAS), promotes and defends human rights in the region and serves as an advisory body to the OAS. It comprises seven independent members elected by the OAS General Assembly who serve in a personal capacity and do not represent their countries of origin or residence.

No. 174/24

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