40th Universal Periodic Review of human rights: UK statement on Venezuela

News Desk: The UK's International Ambassador for Human Rights, Rita French delivered this statement during Venezuela's Universal Periodic Review (UPR) at the Human Rights Council.

The United Kingdom welcomes the arrival of the OHCHR and other UN actors in Venezuela. We are deeply concerned by their reports including on the use of the justice system to undermine democracy.

We urge Venezuela to allow unhindered humanitarian access.

We recommend Venezuela:

1. Take urgent steps to end forced labour, sexual exploitation and human trafficking in the Arco Minero del Orinoco;

2. Ensure sexual and reproductive health and rights for all, including maternal and newborn health care and safe abortions;

3. Respect political parties’ independence, lift arbitrary disqualifications of dissident leaders and cease to override Venezuelans’ will through court decisions.