Speaking in Geneva on Tuesday, UN human rights office (OCHA) Spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani said High Commissioner Volker Türk rejected Washington’s justification for the intervention, despite Venezuela’s “longstanding and appalling” human rights record.
She stressed that accountability for abuses cannot be achieved through unilateral military action. Such an approach, she said, violates international law, undermines the UN Charter and damages the global security architecture.
OCHA noted that the operation breached the core principle prohibiting the use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state. Türk has repeatedly warned that allowing such actions to stand would set a dangerous precedent.
OHCHR was expelled from Venezuela in February 2024 following its reporting on rights violations, while independent investigations mandated by the Human Rights Council have documented grave abuses against political opponents. The UN maintains that the Venezuelan people deserve accountability through fair, victim-centred processes rather than external military intervention.
Concerns have also been raised about worsening conditions inside the country. A state of emergency was declared after the US operation restricted freedom of movement, assembly and protest, while allowing the seizure of property in the name of national defence. The UN fears further militarisation could intensify repression, given the Government’s past record of suppressing dissent under the guise of national security.
Beyond the political crisis, humanitarian needs remain acute. UN aid officials estimate that nearly eight million people, about one in four Venezuelans, require assistance after years of economic decline and instability. A response plan seeking about $600 million remains in place, though Venezuela is among the least-funded humanitarian operations globally.
The situation of refugees is also being closely monitored. Almost 7.9 million Venezuelans have fled the country over recent years, with more than 6.9 million living in Latin America and the Caribbean. While no major new displacement has been recorded since the US action, UN agencies say they remain on alert.
The UN has reiterated that Venezuela’s future must be determined by its own people, with full respect for sovereignty, self-determination and human rights.
–UN/ChannelAfrica–
