UN Human Rights Chief Urges Global Attention to Venezuelan Voices

The UN Human Rights Chief has emphasized the need for global attention to the voices of Venezuelans amid rising tensions in the country. Speaking from Geneva, Ravina Shamdasani, the spokesperson for the High Commissioner, condemned recent military actions and their implications for human rights in Venezuela. She asserted that these interventions undermine international law and the basic principles of sovereignty.

US Military Intervention Criticized

Ms. Shamdasani rejected the US justification for intervention, citing Venezuela’s poor human rights record. She insisted that unilateral military action does not lead to accountability for rights violations and can damage international peace and security.

Effects of Recent Developments

• The UN human rights office was expelled from Venezuela in February 2024.
• Independent investigations have reported severe abuses against political opponents of the government.

Shamdasani highlighted that Venezuelans have awaited proper accountability through transparent processes. She stressed that the Venezuelan government has a history of suppressing free speech and assembly under national security pretenses.

Humanitarian Crisis in Venezuela

Amid ongoing political turmoil, approximately eight million people in Venezuela—one in four citizens—require humanitarian assistance. This urgent need arises from years of economic decline and instability.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) noted that a response plan seeks around $600 million. Jens Laerke, spokesperson for OCHA, pointed out that despite political upheavals, the daily humanitarian situation remains dire.

• 900,000 people face high multisectoral needs, including food, nutrition, and health services.
• Venezuela ranks among the least-funded humanitarian operations globally.
• UN efforts managed to assist around two million individuals in 2025.

Refugees and Displacement

The situation remains precarious for nearly 7.9 million Venezuelan refugees, primarily in Latin America and the Caribbean. Although no significant border displacements were reported following the US military operation, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is closely monitoring the situation.

UNHCR spokesperson Eujin Byun stated that the agency continues to work on emergency relief efforts and support for displaced individuals. Their commitment includes aiding Venezuelans in adapting to new communities and fostering stability throughout the region.

Call for Respecting Venezuelan Rights

Ms. Shamdasani reiterated the High Commissioner’s call for respect towards international law and the rights of Venezuelans. She emphasized that the determination of Venezuela’s future rests solely in the hands of its people, advocating for their self-determination and control over national resources.