UN Mission reports repressive structures remain intact in Venezuela

The United Nations Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Venezuela has released a new report detailing the country's human rights situation. While the mission noted a significant reduction in long-term detentions and forced disappearances following the events of January 3, 2026, it warned that the repressive state apparatus and structures responsible for crimes against humanity remain intact.

The report highlights that although there has been an increase in the space for civil society activities, protests, and the release of hundreds of political prisoners, these changes have not been accompanied by necessary structural institutional reforms. Laws used to criminalize dissent remain in effect, and intelligence and security services maintain their existing policies and operational structures.

Furthermore, the mission identified that at least 19 officials previously linked to grave human rights violations continue to hold or have been reassigned to key positions within the state. The document also documents instances of cruel and inhuman treatment in detention centers, such as El Rodeo I and the Fuerte Guaicaipuro military infrastructure, citing issues with medical care, water access, and food supplies.