Club de Madrid, committed to the promotion of democratic values and practices, expresses deep concern over the recent presidential elections in Venezuela. Reports of irregularities and repression against opposition figures are alarming and require a firm and united international response. The legitimacy of any election depends on transparency, inclusion, and respect for fundamental human rights throughout the entire process.
To ensure this legitimacy, we urge the Venezuelan government to publish the electoral records from each polling station to allow transparent verification of results; to end arrests and intimidation of opposition figures and activists; and to immediately release all political prisoners.
The United Nations, the European Union, and numerous governments have expressed their concern over the lack of transparency and irregularities in the Venezuelan electoral process. The international community must remain vigilant and support efforts to ensure that the will of the Venezuelan people is respected and democracy in Venezuela is protected.