The United Nations and Inter-American Human Rights experts have expressed grave concerns regarding the rise in forced disappearances in Venezuela. This practice is aimed at silencing opposition and creating an atmosphere of fear. Reports indicate numerous cases where families seek information on missing loved ones, often without success. The experts urge the government to comply with international human rights standards and effectively address these violations.
The use of forced disappearance has escalated significantly in Venezuela, drawing concern from both United Nations experts and the Inter-American Human Rights system. In a statement on February 28, the experts emphasized that this tactic targets activists and pro-democracy advocates to create a pervasive atmosphere of fear. They highlighted ongoing reports from families and civil society organizations regarding their attempts to ascertain the whereabouts of the disappeared, noting that domestic complaints often go unaddressed.
As victims turn to international bodies to find answers and seek justice, the experts urge the Venezuelan government to respond effectively. They have noticed patterns of disappearances related to political events, especially with the presidential elections scheduled for July 2024 and the subsequent inauguration in January 2025. The elections held in July saw Nicolás Maduro declared the victor amid allegations of electoral fraud and violent suppression of dissent.
Following the elections, protests erupted as opposition figures claimed electoral manipulation. Despite hundreds of arrests and fatalities during these demonstrations, conditions in the country for political prisoners remain dire, with recent reports indicating 1,060 individuals detained for political reasons. The UN experts underscore the alarming state of human rights violations, asserting that impunity and selective justice further fuel societal terror—a sentiment echoed by the number of ongoing enforced disappearances.
The experts specifically condemned the actions of state authorities who refuse to acknowledge detainees or disclose their status, which constitutes enforced disappearance, irrespective of its duration. They assert that there exists a systematic pattern involving various state institutions in the perpetration of these human rights violations, urging the government to comply with international human rights mandates. Victims must be ensured fundamental legal protections, including contact with legal representatives and family.
In conclusion, Venezuelan authorities face serious criticism for their role in the pattern of forced disappearances and violations of human rights. Calls for transparency, adherence to international laws, and the safeguarding of all individuals’ rights are of paramount importance in addressing the ongoing crisis in Venezuela. The experts stress that the accountability of those involved in enforced disappearances is vital to restoring justice and public confidence in the country’s legal system.
In summary, the alarming increase in forced disappearances in Venezuela highlights a severe breach of human rights, primarily targeting political dissidents and pro-democracy activists. UN experts and the Inter-American Human Rights system call for immediate action from the government to disclose the whereabouts of the disappeared and ensure procedural justice. Upholding fundamental rights and addressing systemic impunity are crucial to fostering a safer environment in Venezuela.
Original Source: havanatimes.org
