The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, on Tuesday expressed deep concern over the high number of arbitrary detentions in Venezuela and the disproportionate use of force, as well as “the resulting climate of fear.”
“It is particularly troubling that so many people are detained, accused or charged for incitement to hatred or under counter-terrorism legislation. Criminal law must never be used to unduly limit the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association,” Türk said in a statement.
“In a climate of fear, it is impossible to implement democratic principles and protect human rights. In such a climate of fear, when you disagree with the government’s policy, you do not express it,” his spokeswoman, Ravina Shamdasani, said at a regular press briefing.
The warning comes a day after Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro called for firmness, demanding that state services act with an “iron fist” after the unrest that erupted following the proclamation of his re-election.
He was announced re-elected for a third term at the end of July, but the opposition denounced “massive fraud”. The announcement of his victory provoked spontaneous demonstrations with a toll of 25 dead and 192 injured, according to official sources.
“All deaths that occurred during protests must be investigated and those responsible must be held accountable,” Türk demanded.
Citing official sources, the UN says more than 2,400 people have been arrested since July 29.
In most of the cases documented by the High Commissioner, detainees were not allowed to appoint a lawyer of their choice or to contact their families: “Some of these cases amount to enforced disappearances.”
Non-governmental organizations
Mr. Türk calls for the “immediate release” of all those arbitrarily detained and a “fair trial for all detainees.”
“The disproportionate use of force by law enforcement and attacks on protesters by armed individuals supporting the government, some of which have resulted in deaths, must not be repeated,” he demanded.
Acts of violence against officials and public buildings have also been reported by some protesters, the High Commissioner said.
Mr. Türk also expressed concern about the possible adoption of a bill on the monitoring and financing of non-governmental organizations, as well as another bill “against fascism, neo-fascism and similar expressions.”
“I urge the authorities to refrain from adopting these laws and any other laws that undermine the civic and democratic space in the country,” said Mr. Türk, also concerned that some people have had their passports “suspended.”
The UN High Commissioner has had no staff in Venezuela since Caracas asked it to suspend its activities in February for denouncing the arrest of a human rights activist. In April, the Venezuelan president announced that he wanted to reopen the office but “they have not yet been allowed to come back, negotiations are currently at a standstill,” said Mme Shamdasani.