Dear John,
This Monday marked one year since millions of Venezuelans courageously went to the polls with hope for democratic change, only to witness their will being stolen by the electoral authorities who refused to publish the tallies and comply with the audits required by law. The July 28, 2024 presidential election—marked by systematic irregularities and ultimately usurped by Nicolás Maduro—stands as a stark reminder of the authoritarian stranglehold on Venezuelan democracy. On this somber anniversary, WOLA reaffirmed our unwavering commitment to supporting the Venezuelan people's fundamental right to democracy and their inspiring resistance against authoritarianism.
Last week, we released an extensive report examining the tumultuous year and a half surrounding the election, from the six months of pre-electoral maneuvering through the brutal aftermath that has seen unprecedented repression of human rights defenders, civil society leaders, and dissenting voices. We also delve into the relationship between the U.S. and Venezuela and how it has evolved in the past six months. Read our summary in English that outlines our report's main findings and presents concrete recommendations to the international community, with particular focus on actionable steps for U.S. policymakers. The complete report is available in Spanish.
The fight for Venezuelan democracy continues, and rigorous research and documentation remain essential tools in this struggle, as does elevating these issues on the international stage. Last Thursday, I participated in a hearing with the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) focused on attacks against human rights defenders in Venezuela, further highlighting the urgent need for international attention to this crisis. You can watch the hearing here.
This has undeniably been one of the most challenging years in our work on Venezuela. Yet WOLA remains steadfast in this fight, constantly inspired by the courage and resilience of our partners throughout Venezuela who continue their vital work despite enormous personal risk. Their determination fuels our own commitment to this cause.
Sincerely, |
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| | Laura Dib Director for Venezuela |
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🇨🇴 ⚖️ We published an analysis following the historic ruling against former President Álvaro Uribe in Colombia, where a court found him guilty of witness tampering and procedural fraud. This landmark decision represents a significant victory for Colombia's legal system and the rule of law, despite the risks and attacks that judges and prosecutors have faced throughout this lengthy legal process. We are tracking developments on the case and its potential fall-out. Read our full analysis here.
- 🚨 🇸🇻 WOLA condemned the decision by El Salvador's legislature to change the constitution, abolishing presidential term limits. We have been closely monitoring the consolidation of authoritarian power in El Salvador and continue to raise our concerns.
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🇺🇸 ✈️ 🇭🇳 🇬🇹 Director for Defense Oversight Adam Isacson has been traveling throughout Central America as part of a research trip with the Women's Refugee Commission. This critical research is being done to better understand the human impact of ICE deportations, given the lack of oversight here in the U.S. In the region, they've been speaking with recently deported individuals and service providers in reception centers. The first dispatch from Honduras came out this week. You can read it here.
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For human rights activists across Latin America right now, the stakes are high. Violence around elections is on the rise, as are threats against those who speak in favor of justice and accountability. Your support of WOLA creates space to amplify the voices of those who put their life on the line to champion human rights; from Caracas, to San Salvador, and everywhere in between. |
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NO BORDER UPDATE THIS WEEK |
There will be no Border Update this week—but don’t worry, we’ll be back soon with the latest analysis. In the meantime, we encourage you to explore our archive of past updates below, where you can catch up on key developments and context around U.S. border and migration policy. Stay tuned! |
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