The UN Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Venezuela has reported that the country’s repressive State machinery remains operational following the abrupt apprehension of former President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces on January 3, 2026. In its update to the Human Rights Council in Geneva, the Mission highlighted both significant events and positive developments, but emphasized that the core structures responsible for human rights violations have not been dismantled. These structures continue to facilitate persecution, and no State policies have been introduced to address this longstanding issue. María Eloisa Quintero, an expert member of the Mission, stated that Venezuela cannot be considered on a genuine path to human rights reform until the repressive apparatus is dismantled.
Despite the downfall of Maduro’s leadership, senior government and military officials implicated in crimes against humanity continue to hold power in Venezuela’s executive branch and security forces. According to Mission member Alex Neve, there is no indication that these officials will be brought to justice. The Mission also reiterated that the U.S. military operation that apprehended Maduro violated international law. While Maduro is believed to be responsible for crimes against humanity, such actions should be pursued through lawful judicial processes that guarantee fair trials.
Since the January operation, the Mission has documented at least 87 new politically motivated detentions, signaling the continuation of efforts to silence dissent. This follows a period of intense repression between September and December 2025, during which 135 arbitrary arrests were made, and detainees endured torture and ill-treatment in various detention facilities. Although the recent release of political prisoners is seen as a positive step, the Mission raised concerns about the lack of transparency surrounding the release process, urging the Venezuelan authorities to provide detailed information on the number and identity of the released individuals.
The new Amnesty Law, adopted on February 20, 2026, which has facilitated some releases, has been welcomed by the Mission. However, it was enacted without public consultation and lacks key provisions for truth, accountability, and reparations. There are concerns that the law’s limited scope will not benefit many individuals who have been detained for political reasons. Additionally, the continued mobilization of colectivos (armed civilian groups) and harassment of opposition figures and journalists remains a serious issue.
The international community must maintain pressure on Venezuela to ensure a transition toward institutional reform and an end to the pervasive culture of fear. Over 8.7 million Venezuelans, including refugees, now live abroad, with many longing for the possibility of returning. Recent months have seen some individuals who were released or had their precautionary measures lifted approaching the Mission, seeking to provide testimony. This is a critical moment for victims, and the Mission’s investigative work remains essential to identify the patterns and perpetrators involved in the violations, which could guide necessary reforms in Venezuela.
The Fact-Finding Mission, which is an independent and technical body, continues to call for full cooperation from Venezuelan authorities, including unhindered access to the country. The Mission’s mandate has been extended until October 2026, allowing continued efforts to document human rights violations and support long-term reforms in Venezuela.
