The Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs, José Manuel Albares, spoke with his Venezuelan counterpart, Foreign Minister Yván Gil, about the detention of the Spanish-Venezuelan activist and human rights defender Rocío San Miguel, arrested eight days ago in Venezuela.
According to EFE, Foreign sources have reported that Albares had a telephone conversation with Gil this Saturday, in which he was interested in the arrest of San Miguel and also in the situation of the office of the United Nations High Commissioner in Venezuela, whose activity was suspended by the Nicolás Maduro regime.
San Miguel, president of the non-governmental organization Citizen Control, was arrested on Friday, February 9, along with several relatives, including her daughter, accused of “the alleged commission of crimes of treason, conspiracy, terrorism and association.”
In addition, the Prosecutor’s Office indicated that it is “allegedly linked” to a conspiracy against the president, Nicolás Maduro, and other high-ranking Venezuelan officials.
His daughter and other relatives initially detained alongside San Miguel were released with a ban on leaving the country and making statements to the media.
Numerous organizations have condemned the detention of the activist, have expressed their concern and have demanded that the Maduro regime respect their rights.
#Albares #asks #Venezuelan #counterpart #activist #Rocío #San #Miguel
**Interview with José Manuel Albares, Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Minister Albares. Can you share your thoughts on the recent arrest of Rocío San Miguel and the implications it may have for human rights in Venezuela?
**Albares:** Thank you for having me. The arrest of Rocío San Miguel is not only concerning for her and her family but also raises significant red flags about the state of human rights in Venezuela. Her work as a human rights defender with the NGO Citizen Control has been vital in advocating for transparency and accountability in the Maduro regime.
**Interviewer:** Many organizations have condemned her detention, citing it as politically motivated. Do you believe this sets a dangerous precedent for activists in Venezuela?
**Albares:** Absolutely. The detention of San Miguel, along with the allegations of treason and conspiracy against her, sends a chilling message to anyone who dares to challenge the regime. It serves to intimidate other activists and suppress dissent, which is fundamentally incompatible with democratic values.
**Interviewer:** In your recent conversation with Foreign Minister Yván Gil, what assurances did you seek regarding the treatment of San Miguel and the broader humanitarian situation?
**Albares:** I made it clear that we expect the Venezuelan government to adhere to international human rights standards. I also inquired about the suspension of the U.N. High Commissioner’s activities in Venezuela, which is crucial for monitoring the situation on the ground. We must ensure that voices like Rocío’s are not silenced.
**Interviewer:** Considering the current geopolitical climate, how do you see European nations balancing diplomacy with the need to support human rights?
**Albares:** It’s a delicate balance, but it is essential. Diplomacy should not come at the expense of human rights. European nations must stand firm against abuses while still engaging in dialogue to find resolutions for the Venezuelan people. Our commitment to human rights should guide our foreign policy decisions.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Minister Albares. Lastly, what would you say to citizens who are concerned about the implications of this situation for democracy in Venezuela?
**Albares:** I encourage citizens to raise their voices and advocate for change. The international community is watching, and solidarity can make a difference. Together, we can exert pressure for the release of those unjustly detained and for the restoration of democratic values in Venezuela.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Minister. This situation is undoubtedly one that will continue to evolve, and it is crucial to keep the conversation going.
—
*What do you think about the implications of Rocío San Miguel’s arrest for the future of activism and human rights in Venezuela? Do you believe international pressure can influence the Maduro regime to change its stance on civil liberties?*
