WASHINGTON, USA – In a significant appeal stemming from a recent gathering in Santo Domingo de Guzmán, numerous countries have called for calm and restraint regarding the ongoing situation in Venezuela. As the nation faces a critical moment, it is imperative that all social and political actors demonstrate the highest level of restraint in their actions.
The participating nations emphasized that respect for the dignity of all individuals is fundamental to peaceful coexistence in society. They underscored the need for adherence to democratic principles and the protection of human rights, particularly the freedoms of peaceful assembly and expression. Concerns are mounting over reports of arbitrary detentions occurring without due process, prompting an urgent call for the immediate release of those impacted.
These nations firmly condemned the violent repression of protesters, which has resulted in numerous fatalities in the aftermath of the recent elections. They urged Venezuelan authorities to cease all acts of violence and to release detained individuals, including representatives of the opposition.
Moreover, there is a strong demand for the return of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights to Venezuela, along with a call for the country to create the necessary conditions for the office to fulfill its mandate effectively.
It is also critical for Venezuela to uphold its obligations under the Caracas Convention on Diplomatic Asylum of 1954, particularly regarding the safe passage needed for six asylum seekers currently located in the Argentine embassy.
The preliminary report from the United Nations Expert Panel concerning the Venezuelan presidential election has raised concerns, revealing that the National Electoral Council (CNE) has not yet provided electoral records to validate the results released on August 2. Preliminary digital data, indicating a different election outcome, has further compounded these concerns.
In light of this, there is a pressing request for the immediate release of all original electoral records and an independent verification of the results by an international organization to honor the democratic will of the Venezuelan people. Delays in this process could undermine the legitimacy of the official results proclaimed on August 2, 2024.
The calling nations have consistently advocated for peaceful dialogue and negotiation as solutions to deep-seated conflicts. Now, more than ever, Venezuela is urged to embrace this legacy to restore public safety, political stability, and peaceful coexistence, which have been endangered by the actions of Venezuelan security forces.
This situation necessitates a comprehensive and inclusive dialogue aimed at fostering national reconciliation, peace, public security, and a revitalized democracy in Venezuela.
The signatory nations reaffirm their commitment to support all initiatives aimed at achieving these goals, advocating for a viable and authentic Venezuelan resolution grounded in democracy, justice, peace, and security.
Countries that have signed this appeal include: Republic of Argentina, Canada, Republic of Chile, Republic of Costa Rica, Czech Republic, Dominican Republic, Republic of Ecuador, Kingdom of Spain, Republic of Guatemala, Cooperative Republic of Guyana, Italian Republic, Kingdom of Morocco, Kingdom of the Netherlands, Republic of Panama, Republic of Paraguay, and Republic of Peru.
