Venezuela: IACHR Urges Immediate and Unconditional Release of All Persons Detained for Political Reasons
Venezuela: IACHR Urges Immediate and Unconditional Release of All Persons Detained for Political Reasons May 15, 2026 Washington D.C. - The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) expresses its deep concern over individuals who continue to be arbitrarily detained for political reasons in Venezuela, and calls for their immediate release [...]
TL;DR
- The IACHR is deeply concerned about arbitrary political detentions in Venezuela and calls for immediate, unconditional release.
- The Commission condemns deaths in custody and widespread violations of due process.
- As of April 2026, 454 individuals were reportedly detained for political reasons, with continued reports of forced disappearances, torture, and lack of medical attention.
- A recent "Law of Amnesty for Democratic Coexistence" benefited a limited number of individuals, with many still under restrictive measures or denied release.
- The IACHR highlights the lack of separation of powers in Venezuela, with the justice system operating as an extension of the executive branch.
- The Commission urges an end to all arbitrary detentions and calls for verifiable public access to information on detainees and amnesty beneficiaries.
- The IACHR urges Venezuela to restore democratic order and the rule of law, and calls for international pressure for free and transparent elections.
- The IACHR reiterates its readiness to conduct an in loco visit to observe the human rights situation.