HRC55 - Interactive dialogue on the oral update of the High Commissioner on the situation of human rights in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela - EU Statement

UNITED NATIONS HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL

55^th session

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

19 March 2024

EU Statement

Mr. President,

The European Union thanks the [Office of the / Deputy] High Commissioner for the oral update on the situation in Venezuela. We commend the important work of the High Commissioner and his Office in Venezuela and reiterate our strong support to your work in monitoring and promoting human rights in the country.

The EU deeply regrets the decision of the Venezuelan authorities to suspend the activities of the Office and to expel its staff a month ago. We call on the authorities to allow the prompt and unconditional reopening and resumption of activities of the Office, as well as the return of its staff to Caracas.

We are worried about the increasing repression in Venezuela, as shown by the arbitrary detention of political and civil society actors, the threats and restrictions against human rights defenders and by recent Supreme Court rulings preventing members of the opposition from exercising their core political rights, thus undermining democracy and the rule of law. 

The EU reiterates its support for an inclusive Venezuelan-led dialogue process leading to credible, inclusive and transparent presidential elections in Venezuela on July 28. We remain convinced that the repression of human rights and fundamental  freedoms needs to be addressed through a peaceful and democratic solution to the political crisis in Venezuela. We encourage all parties to  continue walking the electoral path agreed in Barbados with a view to ensuring a fair and competitive electoral process. The European Union stands ready to support Venezuelan democracy in this crucial year, including through considering the deployment of an electoral observation mission for the 2024 presidential elections upon official invitation of the Venezuelan authorities and depending on the conditions, including the participation of the opposition.

Mr President,

What role can the OHCHR play to ensure that the electoral process in Venezuela remains democratic, fair and competitive?

Thank you.