UN Human Rights Chief Condemns Violence and Detentions in Venezuela

The UN's top human rights official criticized arbitrary detentions and excessive force in Venezuela post a disputed election. Over 2,000 people were detained, accused of incitement or terrorism. The UN called for their release and fair trials, highlighting concerns about enforced disappearances and violence by security forces and pro-government individuals.

The United Nations' top human rights official expressed concern Tuesday over arbitrary detentions and the "disproportionate use of force" in Venezuela, as security forces crack down post the country's disputed presidential election.

Security forces loyal to President Nicolás Maduro have reportedly detained over 2,000 individuals protesting against him or questioning his claim of securing a third term despite significant evidence suggesting he lost by a wide margin in the July 28 election.

U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk stated: "It is especially troubling that so many people are being detained, accused, or charged either with incitement to hatred or under counterterrorism legislation. Criminal law must never be used to unduly limit the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association." Türk and the UN human rights office have documented cases where detainees were denied the rights to appoint lawyers or contact their families, with some approximating enforced disappearances.

Türk called for the immediate release of those arbitrarily detained and fair trial guarantees for all detainees. He condemned the disproportionate use of force by law enforcement and attacks on demonstrators by armed government supporters, which led to deaths, emphasizing that such actions should not recur. Türk also pointed out instances of violence against public officials and property by some demonstrators, stressing that violence is never the answer.

International Criminal Court prosecutors announced that they are "actively monitoring" events in Venezuela as of Monday.

(With inputs from agencies.)