Venezuela political prisoner crisis discussed with Human Rights Watch

The 2015 National Assembly delegation, led by Dinorah Figuera, has held several meetings with Human Rights Watch (HRW) and local NGOs to address the human rights crisis and the situation of political prisoners in Venezuela.

During discussions with HRW, parliamentary representatives emphasized the need for judicial independence and the unconditional release of those detained for political or ideological reasons. HRW officials also met with government representatives to discuss the national consultation for penal system reform.

Simultaneously, the NGO Foro Penal met with Figuera to present an updated list of 344 political prisoners, including 200 civilians and 144 military personnel. Foro Penal argued that a genuine political change is required to transform the justice system, including the Public Ministry and security forces, noting that partial releases do not solve the underlying issue if political detentions continue.

Additionally, the Committee for the Freedom of Political Prisoners (Clippve) met with HRW to report systematic torture, lack of medical care, and procedural delays in detention centers like El Rodeo I. Figuera has committed to including the issue of political prisoners as a central pillar in upcoming political negotiations.