VENEZUELA: HUNDREDS STILL ARBITRARILY DETAINED

Ms. Delcy Rodríguez,

I am deeply troubled that, despite announcements by Venezuelan authorities regarding the release of a “significant number” of individuals detained for political reasons, and following the adoption of an Amnesty Law, hundreds of people remain unjustly deprived of their liberty.

While I welcome the release of the many political prisoners over the last months, I remain gravely concerned about the continued arbitrary detention of at least 485 individuals, as documented by the NGO Foro Penal as of April 6, 2026. Practices such as enforced disappearance and torture are unequivocally prohibited under international human rights law. Those responsible for such violations may be subject to investigation and prosecution before independent judicial bodies beyond Venezuela’s borders.

This is your opportunity to make meaningful change and mark a new era in Venezuelan history.

I call on you to ensure the immediate and unconditional release of all individuals arbitrarily detained for political reasons, and to put an end to all politically motivated criminal proceedings. While under state custody, every detainee must have their life and personal integrity fully protected, along with access to all fair trial guarantees, including the right to choose their own legal representation, receive adequate medical care, and maintain contact with their families.

Yours sincerely,

[YOUR NAME]