Amnesty International has issued a stark warning that human rights violations in Venezuela are not isolated events but part of a sustained, structural pattern of state action. During the presentation of its annual report, the organization emphasized that this repressive practice remains active and is projected to continue into 2026.
A Systemic Network of Repression
Nastassja Rojas, the Deputy Director of the NGO in Venezuela and an internationalist, described the situation as a “deeply repressive apparatus” that operates as a network. This system coordinates various public power organs to target and punish dissent, whether that dissent is real or perceived.
The report identifies that this state practice involves the Public Ministry, the judicial system, security forces, and a framework of restrictive laws. Together, these elements limit fundamental freedoms and facilitate the systematic persecution of individuals.
The Human Cost of Political Persecution
Arbitrary detentions for political reasons remain a critical finding of the annual report. Towards the end of 2025, at least 806 people were deprived of their liberty, with more than 400 of them remaining in detention.
Rojas noted that these detentions often serve as a gateway to more severe abuses. The judicial process has shifted from being a mechanism of protection to becoming a tool of repression, creating a cumulative impact on basic rights such as health, food, and access to information.
Erosion of Civic Space and Social Crisis
The report highlights a severe closing of civic space, with many civil society organizations forced to operate from exile. This environment includes attacks on freedom of expression and the detention of journalists and human rights defenders.
Beyond political persecution, the organization points to a persistent crisis in living conditions. In 2025, protests continued regarding housing and labor rights, whereas the LGBTIQ+ community faced discriminatory actions and a lack of protection.
The internal deterioration has led to a massive exodus, with an estimated 8 million Venezuelans having left the country. At least 2 million people within national territory depend on humanitarian aid due to a decline in international cooperation.
The Risk of Normalization
Amnesty International warned that recent measures, including the Ley de Amnistía (Amnesty Law) and various releases from prison, may not signal an end to persecution. Rojas stated that these releases often come with continued surveillance and restrictions.
There is a significant risk that these grave violations, including crimes against humanity, could become normalized. The organization maintains that as long as these practices persist, the state pattern of violations remains fully active.
Future Outlook
If the documented structural practices are not dismantled, the pattern of state repression is likely to persist throughout 2026. The continued use of the judicial system as a tool for punishment could further shrink the remaining civic space.
A possible next step for the organization is to increase calls for the immediate and unconditional release of all political prisoners and the cessation of politically motivated criminal proceedings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the “state pattern” described by Amnesty International?
It is a structural practice where security forces, the judicial system, the Public Ministry, and restrictive laws work together as a repressive network to persecute and punish real or perceived dissent.
How many people were affected by political detentions and disappearances by late 2025?
The report states there were at least 806 people deprived of liberty for political reasons (with over 400 still detained) and at least 63 people in situations of forced disappearance.
Does the Amnesty Law signify an end to the persecution?
According to Nastassja Rojas, no; she indicated that releases do not signify the end of persecution and that the law may be used as another element of the repressive apparatus.
How can the international community best support those documenting human rights abuses in high-risk environments?
