UN experts: Venezuela's repression apparatus intact despite Maduro's removal

The independent fact-finding mission, in a report to the U.N. Human Rights Council, stated that while Maduro's capture in January led to a decrease in politically motivated detentions, it did not signify a fundamental break from years of repression. The mission described the political liberalization measures adopted since then as "partial, conditional and reversible at best."

The report, covering September of last year to July, also characterized the U.S. intervention as a breach of international law. Maduro's rule had faced widespread challenges from the opposition and numerous Western governments, particularly concerning the disputed 2024 presidential election.

Despite some advances noted by the report, such as prisoner releases, an amnesty law, and the closure of the El Helicoide detention facility, the independent experts highlighted that senior officials linked to past repression remain in key positions. Security agencies, intelligence services, and laws used to restrict dissent have not undergone significant reform. The mission stated that hundreds of individuals, including perceived government opponents, are still arbitrarily detained for political reasons and endure harsh prison conditions, torture, and ill-treatment. Allegations of beatings, electric shocks, and prolonged isolation were documented at El Rodeo I and Fuerte Guaicaipuro prisons.

Furthermore, the report found extensive links between the state and armed civilian groups known as "colectivos," which allegedly intimidate opponents with political, financial, and logistical support from state institutions. The mission criticized the authorities for failing to advance accountability for past abuses and for Venezuela's withdrawal from the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court. The experts urged the government to release all political detainees, investigate alleged crimes against humanity, reform security institutions, and dismantle armed civilian groups involved in rights violations.