Advocating for vulnerable communities in Venezuela at the Human Rights Council

ITEM 4: Interactive dialogue on High Commissioner’s report on Venezuela

Mr President,

The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) thanks the High Commissioner for his important report. 

The humanitarian crisis in Venezuela continues to be one of the most serious and protracted in the region, but it seems to be forgotten and neglected internationally. Despite some specific progress, the situation continues to be characterized by the deterioration of social and economic rights, the collapse of basic services, and the erosion of civic and democratic space, which deepens the vulnerability of millions of people.

As a faith-based international humanitarian organization, our constant presence on the ground allows us to support the most vulnerable communities, implement multi-sector projects, and witness first-hand the magnitude of the needs.

The Venezuelan population faces serious deficiencies in key sectors such as food security, health, and access to water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH). We highlight the critical situation of the Indigenous peoples of the Amacuro Delta, such as the Warao, who suffer from neglect, displacement, river pollution due to illegal mining, and a lack of health and education services. Infant mortality, malnutrition, and lack of access to clean water and medical care are everyday realities for these communities.

• We call on the international community and the Venezuelan government to redouble their efforts to assist the most vulnerable, especially indigenous peoples, women, children, and persons with disabilities. It is essential to strengthen cooperation and humanitarian assistance mechanisms, guarantee non-discriminatory access to basic services, and protect the space for humanitarian organizations to operate.
• We urge all parties to facilitate humanitarian access and prioritize the well-being of the affected population.
• We call up on the international community, the government of Venezuela and all humanitarian actors to a humanitarian response based on human rights, justice, and dignity for all. “Hunger and malnutrition are a human rights issue” – as stated by the UN Special Rapporteur on the right to food.
• We reaffirm our commitment to act in accordance with the humanitarian principles of neutrality, impartiality, and independence, avoiding any political confrontation and focusing on protecting the lives and rights of those most in need.

Thank you Mr. president