Venezuela

The “interim" or parallel government, established by the main opposition parties in Venezuela, and recognised by a number of countries internationally, after the 2018 elections were discredited, was ended in a vote held on 22 December. Juan Guaido’s mandate as “interim president” was concluded, with supportive political parties arguing the unviability of a strategy that relies on symbolic leadership and the non-recognition of Nicolas Maduro as president. Some members of the opposition have also argued the need to concentrate efforts in ensuring that the 2024 elections are free and fair, including through the dialogue and negotiations with Maduro’s government that resumed last month with the facilitation of Norway.

Elections Nicolas Maduro Juan Guaido

An agreement reached between the Venezuelan government and the opposition will allow for assets previously frozen due to international sanctions to be used to finance social projects. The agreement was facilitated by Norway. Both the international community and the opposition leader, Juan Guaido, have expressed their hope that the agreement could serve as a step to ensure that the 2024 elections in Venezuela meet the minimum conditions to be free and fair.

Nicolas Maduro Sanctions

The UN Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Venezuela has published a report detailing the participation of state agents, including President Maduro, in the repression of dissent. While the Mission has been unable to enter Venezuela, the report was drafted with information gathered from interviews with victims, families and other stakeholders. The Mission draws attention to the absence of the rule of law in the country and calls upon authorities to investigate and prosecute all human rights violations.

UN Crimes Against Humanity Nicolas Maduro