UN report warns that the repressive apparatus in Venezuela remains intact
The UN Independent International Fact-Finding Mission has presented a new report on the situation in Venezuela during the year 2026. Despite the political changes resulting from the intervention of January 3rd and the subsequent capture of Nicolás Maduro, the international body emphasizes that the state’s system of repression remains unchanged.
Sofía Macher, president of the mission, highlighted that, although specific progress has been recorded and there has been a decrease in the most extreme forms of violence, the institutional transformations necessary to guarantee permanent change have not been executed. The structure of the security forces and intelligence services remains operational, operating under the same dynamics as in previous years.
Limited progress in the face of persistent repression
The document recognizes important positive aspects, among which the following stand out:
- A notable reduction in forced disappearances and prolonged detentions.
- The release of hundreds of citizens who remained imprisoned for political reasons.
- A slightly wider margin for holding protests and civil society activities.
However, the report is blunt regarding the lack of will to dismantle control mechanisms. It is noted that laws intended to criminalize dissent remain in force and that at least 19 officials linked to human rights violations continue to hold relevant positions in the State.
As long as the repressive structures are not dismantled and judicial independence is not guaranteed, any political opening will remain fragile and reversible.
Sofía Macher, President of the Independent International Mission
Reports of torture and the role of collectives
The UN has documented alarming cases of torture and degrading treatment in detention centers such as El Rodeo I and Fuerte Guaicaipuro. Practices of confinement in underground cells, food deprivation, and exposure to extreme weather conditions are reported. Since January, 64 new cases of torture have been recorded, while hundreds of people remain detained for ideological reasons.
A central point of the analysis is the role of the “colectivos.” The mission maintains that these armed civilian groups do not operate independently, but are fundamental pieces of the state’s repressive apparatus. The study details direct links between these groups and security agencies, evidencing how their expansion was a political strategy to consolidate control through violence and coercion.
Finally, Alex Neve, a member of the mission, urged the international community to intensify its efforts in promoting human rights, ensuring that any intervention must prioritize the protection of citizens’ integrity and prevent the facilitation of further violations of international law.
