Venezuela: Political spiral of violence a threat to the rule of law
by Amnesty International
So
far 37 people have lost their lives and more than 550 have been injured
in Venezuela since protest started in early February.© Carlos Becerra
Venezuela risks one of the worst threats to the rule of law in
decades if the different political forces do not commit to fully
respecting human rights, according to a new Amnesty International report
on the current crisis in the country.
The report,
Venezuela: Human Rights at risk amid protests,
documents allegations of human rights violations and abuses committed in
the context of the massive public demonstrations since early February.
“The country runs the risk of descending into a spiral of violence
unless steps are taken to bring the conflicting parties around the
table. This can only happen if both sides fully respect human rights and
the rule of law. Unless this happens, the death toll will continue to
rise with ordinary people bearing the brunt,” said Erika Guevara Rosas,
Americas Director at Amnesty International.
So far 37 people have lost their lives and more than 550 have been
injured including at least 120 through the use of firearms. According to
figures released by the Office of the Attorney General on 27 March
2,157 have been detained during the protests. The vast majority has been
released but continue to face charges.
According to allegations received by Amnesty International, the
country’s security forces have resorted to the excessive use of force,
including the use of live fire, and even torture when dealing with
protesters.
The report also documents human rights abuses committed by pro-government groups, protesters and unidentified individuals.
“All allegations of human rights violations and abuses have to be
promptly and thoroughly investigated and the perpetrators brought to
justice,” said Erika Guevara Rosas.
“The political crisis risks undermining any progress made in recent
years in standing up for the rights of those most marginalized in the
country.”
Amnesty International is calling on the Venezuelan government to commit
to a Human Rights National Plan. This plan should be the result of a
national dialogue and include all parties and civil society.
“The government and the opposition must commit to peaceful means of
resolving the political crisis, instructing supporters that violence and
confrontational rhetoric that could incite violence will not be
tolerated. The international community, including neighbouring
countries, must foster constructive dialogue in the country,” said Erika
Guevara Rosas.
Background information
Examples of alleged human rights violations
 |
| Geraldine Moreno |
On 19 February, Geraldine Moreno, a 23-year-old student, took part in
a demonstration in the city of Valencia. A National Guard officer
allegedly fired a rubber pellet shotgun cartridge into her face from a
distance of only 30 cm. Geraldine died in hospital three days later.
Daniel Quintero, a 21-year-old student, was detained by officers of the
National Guard after taking part in an anti-government demonstration in
the city of Maracaibo on 21 February. He was repeatedly beaten and
alleges that a National Guard commander threatened him with being burned
alive.
For further information contact John Tackaberry, Media Relations (613)744-7667 #236
jtackaberry@amnesty.ca
Report [in Spanish]
Venezuela: Human Rights at risk amid protests
