As repression rises, a human rights group keeps investigating

Repression and persecution have escalated in Venezuela ahead of the presidential elections. Provea, a human rights organization based in Caracas with a 14-person team, continues to monitor and document human rights abuses despite increasing danger and threats. The group has been recognized for its courage by the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA). Venezuelan officials have labeled Provea as an “enemy of the people” and accused it of conspiring against the country. The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights has called on the Venezuelan government to permit Provea’s work without interference. Provea reports that at least three local activists have been arbitrarily arrested, and the UN human rights officers were expelled. Armed groups known as “colectivos,” backed by President Nicolás Maduro, have repeatedly threatened Provea’s office. Provea’s leader, Marino Alvarado, has faced personal threats and attacks and highlights the increased danger under Maduro’s government. Since Maduro took office in 2013, over 43,000 people have had their rights violated, 1,652 have been tortured, and 7,309 have faced inhumane treatment or punishment. The organization found a 20% increase in human rights violations in 2023 compared to the previous year. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his government have been repeatedly accused of severe human rights violations, such as extrajudicial killings, forced disappearances, arbitrary detentions, and torture, as documented by the U.N. Fact-Finding Mission on Venezuela since 2019. These actions are purportedly aimed at silencing opposition, impacting various groups including union members, journalists, and activists. Venezuela is the only Latin American country currently under investigation by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for potential crimes against humanity. The Organization of American States has called for the ICC to issue arrest warrants for Venezuelan officials, citing a pervasive culture of impunity. Human rights groups like Defiende Venezuela and Provea have been vital in recording abuses and advocating for victims, despite governmental persecution. These organizations have increasingly collaborated to strengthen the human rights movement. The U.S. State Department has commended these defenders for their work towards a democratic Venezuela. Recently, Provea was honored with the WOLA’s 2024 Human Rights Award. Original Text bt María Luisa Paúl, publihsed in -> TWP

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