In a joint statement released this week, 21 civil society organizations, including Amnesty International, have urged the renewal of the United Nations Fact-Finding Mission on Venezuela (FFM). The mission is critical in examining human rights violations and international crimes committed in Venezuela, phenomena that persist amid ongoing impunity. The statement specifically draws attention to the involvement of armed civilian groups in state-driven repression and human rights abuses, a pattern that has become entrenched under the government’s policies.
The FFM’s comprehensive investigations have uncovered significant details about command chains within Venezuela’s intelligence services and security forces. These investigations have led to the profiling of both mid- and high-ranking officials involved in perpetrating abuses. The findings reveal a state policy, viewed as a crime against humanity, targeting civilians who publicly criticize or disagree with the political system or government authorities. More details can be found here.
The mission, established by the United Nations Human Rights Council through resolution 42/25 in September 2019, has been investigating human rights violations since 2014. As of now, the mission has already undergone renewals for two-year terms beginning in 2020, 2022, and 2024. With its current mandate concluding soon, human rights organizations are advocating for another extension beyond 2026. They highlight the necessity for continued scrutiny on Venezuela, emphasizing the mission’s crucial role alongside the UN’s Human Rights Office.
The backdrop of this plea includes significant political shifts in Venezuela. Since President Nicolás Maduro’s capture in January 2026 and the emergence of interim President Delcy Rodríguez, some reforms have been observed, including the partial release of political prisoners and improved economic cooperation on a global scale. However, challenges remain. Human Rights Watch notes that restrictions on media freedom under Maduro led to the closure of numerous newspapers and radio stations, contravening international standards on freedom of expression.
As the United Nations Human Rights Council prepares to vote on the mission’s extension during its 63rd session in early October, the civil society groups seek to address pivotal questions about the mission’s future. They emphasize a victim- and justice-centered mandate, ensuring public and reliable information dissemination. The organizations advocate for the mission’s continuation until at least 2028, arguing that its cessation could significantly impact Venezuela’s future trajectory.
The call for the renewal of the FFM is a testament to international concern over Venezuela’s human rights situation and highlights the global community’s role in fostering accountability and transparency in the region.