HRC56 Interactive dialogue on the report of the High Commissioner on the situation of human rights in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela EU Statement

United Nations Human Rights Council

56^th session

Interactive dialogue on the report of the High Commissioner on the situation of human rights in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela

4 July 2024

EU statement

Mr. President,

The European Union thanks the High Commissioner for his report. We support the important work of the High Commissioner and his Office. We therefore urge the authorities to allow the prompt and unconditional reopening of the Office, with the same mandate, and to resume their activities throughout Venezuela, with unfettered access to all regions and detention centres. We also call on the authorities to cooperate fully with all other relevant human rights mechanisms.

We remain deeply concerned about the human rights' situation in the country, including reported cases of enforced disappearances, arbitrary detentions, criminalisation of dissenting voices, intimidation of political activists and human rights defenders, allegations of torture, lack of accountability, restrictions to freedom of expression, cases of violence and discrimination, including against Indigenous Peoples and LGBTI persons, and the further closure of the civic space. We are also concerned about the National Assembly decision to resume consideration of a bill that seeks to restrict, potentially criminalize and close down NGOs operating in Venezuela. We call for the immediate and unconditional release of arbitrarily detained prisoners.

The EU reiterates its support for fair, credible, inclusive and transparent presidential elections in Venezuela on 28 July, and encourages all parties to respect the electoral path agreed in Barbados. In that regard, we regret the government's decision to withdraw its invitation to an EU Election Observation Mission. We remain convinced that competitive and inclusive elections are the key towards a peaceful and democratic solution, led by the Venezuelans, to the political crisis.

Mr High Commissioner, how can we better support you in light of the current challenges your office faces on the ground?

Thank you.

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