Human rights and institutional concerns in Venezuela and MX

In Venezuela, reports have highlighted severe human rights violations within the prison system, specifically at the Coro Penitentiary Community. The Venezuelan Observatory of Prisons (OVP) documented the use of a punishment cell called ‘la isla’, where inmates lack natural light, potable water, and adequate food. The facility is reportedly operating at 195% capacity. Additionally, critics have raised concerns regarding the Amnesty Law, arguing it serves to maintain power by excluding detainees accused of terrorism, corruption, and crimes against humanity. A UN Fact-Finding Mission noted that the state’s repressive apparatus remains intact, with an estimated 379 to 500 political prisoners in custody.

In Mexico, authorities have addressed deteriorating prison conditions in Puebla. Following a National Human Rights Commission (CNDH) assessment describing the Acatlán de Osorio Social Reinsertion Center as ‘deplorable’, the state government is evaluating a plan to shift prison administration from municipalities to the state level to combat overcrowding and malnutrition. Separately, the National Electoral Institute (INE) has faced allegations of corruption and lack of transparency regarding the leadership of Guadalupe Taddei Zavala, leading to her announced departure from the presidency of the electoral body.