Following Nicolas Maduro’s contested re-election in July, a crackdown by Venezuela’s government has resulted in 25 deaths and the arrest of 2,400 individuals, a United Nations fact-finding mission has reported. The mission described the situation as one of the most severe human rights crises in recent history. The response of the authorities to protests and opposition has intensified, leading to a deterioration of the rule of law.
Protesters were killed and thousands arrested, with many facing accusations of terrorism and incitement to hatred. The mission highlighted serious violations of due process, particularly in the large number of arrests involving minors. The government’s repressive actions have been condemned, with accusations of electoral fraud also being made by opposition supporters.
The US has imposed sanctions on Venezuelan officials accused of helping Maduro secure his victory, while the opposition leader has sought asylum in Spain. Maduro’s government has blamed the opposition for the deaths during the protests, labeling them as extremists and fascists.
Allegations of forced disappearances and torture have increased in Venezuela, according to the fact-finding mission. The government has refused to cooperate with the UN in addressing the human rights violations. The situation in Venezuela remains tense and uncertain, with no clear resolution in sight. International pressure continues to be placed on Maduro’s government to address the ongoing human rights abuses.
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