UNITED NATIONS HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL

60^th Session

Interactive dialogue on the report of the independent international fact-finding mission on the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela

22 September 2025

EU statement

Mr President, 

The European Union would like to thank the Fact-Finding Mission for this report and reiterate its support for your mandate. All human rights mechanisms on Venezuela are essential, and we urge the authorities to engage with them constructively. This includes the restoration of the full capacity of the OHCHR in Caracas, the return of all staff members and their unfettered access to all regions and detention centres.

The EU is very concerned about the acts of repression mentioned in your report, including excessive use of force and harassment against dissenting voices, opposition members, civil society, human rights defenders, lawyers, as well as journalists and other media workers. 

We urge the authorities to respect, protect and fulfil all human rights, to investigate human rights violations and abuses, to hold those responsible accountable, and to restore the independence of the judiciary. We also call for the severe restrictions on civil society space and NGOs to be lifted.

The EU expresses deep concern about reports of torture and other forms of ill-treatment against detainees, including sexual and gender-based violence, and demands the immediate and unconditional release of all individuals arbitrarily detained, including dual and foreign citizens, and the end of enforced disappearances. We also urge the authorities to respect due process and fundamental rights of detainees, such as access to medical care, private legal assistance and contact with family members.

Together with regional and international partners, the EU aims to foster a Venezuelan-led dialogue towards a peaceful and democratic solution that reflects the will of the Venezuelan people and restores democracy, the rule of law and human rights. 

Ms Valiñas, 

What should be the top priority of the international community to find a solution to the protracted crisis of human rights in Venezuela?

Thank you.