Human Rights Council 33, joint statement on Venezuela, 29 September, 2016
UK statement delivered by Paraguay on behalf of 30 states (including the UK) during the 33rd session of the Human Rights Council.
The Human Rights Council takes place at the Palais des Nations in Geneva
Thank you Mr. President,
I have the honour to make this statement on behalf of 30 delegations and my own, the Republic of Paraguay,
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At the beginning of the session, the High Commissioner expressed his willingness to provide technical assistance and cooperation to help improving the human rights situation in Venezuela. In that regard, we reiterate our commitment to assist, within the framework of International Law, to both strengthening the rule of law and ensuring Venezuelans fully enjoy their civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights.
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We underscore our commitment to democracy and human rights, we condemn violence regardless of its origin, and reiterate our support for any efforts of understanding among all parties through a timely and effective dialogue, either from a direct way or through facilitators, that help resolve the urgent needs of the people of Venezuela; to preserve peace and safety, to ensure the full respect of human rights, due process, the separation of powers and the consolidation of a representative democracy.
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We welcome the disposition expressed by the Holy See to contribute in facilitating the political dialogue and we call upon all parties to consider this offering and launch a national dialogue, both inclusive and in good faith, that will allow to identify long-lasting solutions in an environment of peace and mutual respect, encouraging all parties to continue observing peaceful ways of expression.
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Finally, we also share the concerns presented by the High Commissioner about the grave and repeated reports of repression of the voices of the opposition and members of the Venezuelan civil society, those of arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances and use of excessive force against peaceful protesters and journalists; as we request the early release of persons arrested for political reasons.
Thank you, Mr. President.