Politics UN report: Torture and arbitrary arrests in Venezuela
According to a UN report, there have been serious human rights violations in Venezuela in connection with the controversial presidential election.
15.10.2024, 13:15
SDA
"These include arbitrary arrests, torture, enforced disappearances and sexual violence - all as part of a coordinated plan to silence critics and perceived opponents," according to a report by the United Nations International Independent Commission of Inquiry. The victims include children and people with disabilities.
The investigation, which expands on an initial report by the commission from September 20, documents numerous human rights violations committed by the Venezuelan government, security forces and pro-government armed civilian groups before, during and after the election in July.
Prisoners threatened with torture
In order to get prisoners to incriminate themselves for serious crimes such as terrorism, they were also threatened with torture. "The lack of evidence and the absence of lawyers of their choice put victims in a particularly vulnerable position, as self-incrimination could result in disproportionately high prison sentences," the report states. The situation of imprisoned children and young people, who are exposed to the same dangers, is particularly serious.
Following a presidential election on July 28 that was overshadowed by allegations of fraud, the election authority loyal to the party declared Nicolás Maduro, who has been in power since 2013, the winner. The country's opposition, however, spoke of electoral fraud and claimed victory for their candidate Edmundo González.
Protests broke out during the election, which were violently suppressed by the authorities. According to the commission of inquiry, 25 people were shot and killed in the most recent incidents. "Hundreds of others were injured, while thousands were imprisoned simply for exercising their fundamental right to freedom of expression," it added.
