Politicians, diplomats and academics from the region rejected and described as a “serious political error” the suspension of the Human Rights office of the United Nations (UN) in Venezuela. The main voice was Michelle Bachelet, who, along with 64 other authorities from different Latin American countries, rejected the decision of the Nicolás Maduro regime.
Through a public statement, they warned of the need to redouble efforts to avoid the consolidation of what they accuse could be a “dictatorial and antihistorical tendency” in Venezuela.
The Latin American Reflection Table, made up of politicians, diplomats and academics from various countries in the region, “rejects and declares as a serious political error, with implications for the entire region, the decision adopted by Venezuela to suspend the activities of the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights in that country and expel those who work there”.
According to the document, said act configures “a gloomy outlook on the future of Venezuelan democracy”.
Along these lines, it is pointed out that what is happening in Venezuela “is not foreign” to the rest of the American countries, “less if this confronts the United Nations and the full validity of human rights”.
In addition to the rejection of the group of politicians, diplomats and academics in the region, recent reports indicate that the shortcomings in the country are evident. Food is precarious and poverty has increased, while the migration of several million permeates several countries in the hemisphere.
The collaborators of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights have been there to detect the reality and from those truths contribute to designing the government’s plans to overcome them.
In that sense, the Latin American Reflection Table points out that expelling officials “By doing its job it only expresses political myopia and an authoritarian obstinacy in maintaining power, above a joint view as a nation on the best ways to get out of the crisis.”.
With this, they criticized that the Venezuelan regime’s announcements, “they go in the opposite direction” to what was agreed in the Brasilia Consensusan agreement launched in May 2023 and of which Venezuela is a part.
In October of last year, the leaders of the 12 South American countries approved the Roadmap – a document that includes 17 points of action – that will govern the Consensus, a document that calls for “coherence in the governance and efficiency of each one of the member countries to meet its objectives.”
Last week, Nicolás Maduro suspended the activities of the Office of the UN High Commissioner in Venezuela and gave its officials 72 hours to leave the country. He accused them of interfering in internal affairs after reporting the forced disappearance of the activist, Rocío San Miguel.
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**Interview with Dr. Laura Guzmán, Latin American Political Analyst**
**Interviewer**: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Guzmán. There has been significant backlash against the Maduro regime’s decision to suspend the UN Human Rights office in Venezuela. What do you think sparked such a strong reaction from politicians, diplomats, and academics across the region?
**Dr. Guzmán**: Thank you for having me. The reaction stems from a deep concern over the implications of this decision not just for Venezuela but for the entire region. Many believe that the suspension of the UN Human Rights office risks entrenching a dictatorial governance model and undermines democratic norms. Influential figures like Michelle Bachelet, along with numerous authorities, view this as a “serious political error” that could signal a dangerous trend.
**Interviewer**: You mentioned that this move is seen as potentially contributing to a “dictatorial and antihistorical tendency.” Could you elaborate on what that means?
**Dr. Guzmán**: Certainly. The phrase reflects the fear that Venezuela is moving away from democratic norms and human rights principles. Many believe that by expelling the UN Human Rights representatives, the Maduro regime is attempting to escape accountability for its actions. This sets a worrying precedent that could resonate in other countries within the region that might be tempted to take similar actions against international oversight.
**Interviewer**: The Latin American Reflection Table has characterized this decision as having implications for the entire region. In what ways do you think other countries in Latin America could be affected?
**Dr. Guzmán**: When a government like Venezuela’s takes such a step, it can embolden other autocratic regimes in the region. It creates an environment where ignoring human rights becomes more commonplace and accepted. Moreover, it undermines cooperative efforts for democracy and stability throughout Latin America. Countries facing internal pressures may see this as a green light to resist international scrutiny and supporting human rights.
**Interviewer**: Lastly, what can be done to counter this situation, and what role can the international community play moving forward?
**Dr. Guzmán**: The response must involve coordinated efforts between regional governments and international organizations. There needs to be increased diplomatic pressure on Caracas to prioritize human rights and restore the UN office. Additionally, regional coalitions, such as the OAS, should be more proactive in safeguarding democratic principles. Advocacy, public awareness, and support for civil society groups in Venezuela are crucial to ensure that voices calling for democracy and human rights do not go unheard.
**Interviewer**: Thank you, Dr. Guzmán, for your insights on this critical issue. We appreciate your time today.
**Dr. Guzmán**: Thank you for having me. It’s essential to keep this dialogue going.
