President Maduro’s Announcement
President Nicolas Maduro of Venezuela declared on Tuesday that the United Nations human rights office would resume operations in the country. This decision follows the suspension of the office and the expulsion of its staff in February.
Motivation for the Change
Maduro’s government has faced criticism both domestically and internationally regarding its human rights record. The president has been accused of suppressing dissent as he seeks a third term in office. Of particular concern was his blocking of a prominent opposition leader from participating in the July elections, which were promised to be democratic.
International Involvement
During the announcement, Maduro was joined by Karim Khan, the head of the International Criminal Court. Khan is leading an investigation into Venezuela for possible crimes against humanity related to a violent crackdown on protests in 2017.
“I have received the proposal to once again invite the office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, to be in our country, in Venezuela,” Maduro stated during the press conference.
Reconciliation Efforts
Maduro expressed his willingness to mend relations, saying, “I agree. Let’s overcome our differences, the conflict that we had. I am ready to receive the envoy Volker Turk.”
The timeline for the return of the UN rights agency staff to Venezuela remains uncertain. Their expulsion in February occurred shortly after the detention of activist Rocio San Miguel, leading to international condemnation.
Detention of Rocio San Miguel
Rocio San Miguel, a prominent 57-year-old activist, was apprehended at an airport in Caracas. She was accused of treason and terrorism in connection with an alleged plot to assassinate Maduro, a claim the government attributed to U.S. involvement. San Miguel is known for her work with the NGO Citizen Control, which focuses on investigating security and military issues in Venezuela.
