In the wake of Venezuela’s contentious 2024 presidential elections, Human Rights Watch (HRW) has released a report detailing serious human rights abuses by government forces and pro-government armed groups. The report outlines instances of killings, torture, enforced disappearances, and arbitrary detentions carried out by colectivos — armed groups supporting the government — and security forces loyal to President Nicolas Maduro. HRW’s Americas Director, Juanita Goebertus, highlighted these actions as a governmental crackdown on individuals advocating for democratic change. She stated, “The Venezuelan government has killed, tortured, detained, and forcefully disappeared people seeking democratic change.”
The report provides evidence that 24 individuals were killed during protests contesting the election results, with security forces and pro-government groups bearing responsibility for these deaths. The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) confirmed over 2,000 arbitrary detentions within this period. Furthermore, approximately 126 human rights defenders were arrested between September 2024 and January 2025 as Venezuelan legislation permits the detention of individuals perceived as threats to the government.
Although the Venezuelan Attorney General announced the release of 200 detainees in December 2024, HRW asserts that many were coerced into remaining silent about their detention experiences. The HRW report records 2,224 victims of cruel and inhumane treatment in 2024, including possible torture. Such actions violate the fundamental rights protected by the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).
The 2024 elections were marred by controversy. Despite the Venezuelan Supreme Court’s validation of Maduro’s re-election, top election officials acknowledged irregularities in the voting process. European Union countries have demanded the release of voting records. Meanwhile, countries such as Peru have recognized opposition leader Edmundo Gonzalez as President-elect. HRW also demands the United Nations release findings from the Electoral Technical Team to ensure democratic processes are respected.
For more on the report and background on the political climate in Venezuela, visit JURIST.