Three Venezuelan human rights advocates who were brought to the Netherlands by a human rights organization a few months ago are now stuck here due to the uncertain situation in their home country. Returning is currently too risky for them, and their residency permits have been extended, NOS reports.
The two human rights lawyers and a political activist came to the Netherlands at the initiative of Justice & Peace. The human rights organization invited them to come stay here for three months as part of its Shelter City program, giving the three advocates an opportunity to temporarily lead a normal life without fear of persecution. The program’s goal is for them to then be able to continue their work at home with renewed vigor.
When Venezuelan airspace closed early in December, it was already clear that they would not be able to return as planned. But the United States’ kidnapping of President Nicolas Maduro made their return even more uncertain.
“It’s not nice for them to be here while things are escalating at home,” Maral Kajeh of Justice & Peace told NOS. “But human rights defenders are among the first people to suffer the consequences for speaking out.”
The organization is working with the three Venezuelans to determine how and when they can go home. “We’ve been working with people at risk in their home countries for years. Despite the risk, they always want to return,” Kajeh said.
Human rights lawyer and academic Victoria is one of the three. She is at risk of being arrested in Venezuela because of her work. “We face many obstacles in defending our clients. Unfortunately, lawyers sometimes become victims themselves as a result.”
She told the broadcaster that her time in the Netherlands has done her good. “There’s a good quality of life here. Over the past few months, I’ve been able to do my academic work safely. As a result, I experienced less stress and feel much better, both mentally and physically.”
But the situation in Venezuela is getting tenser by the day, and she is eager to return home. “People are afraid to go outside. 16 young people were recently arrested for joking about Maduro. They are now suspected of terrorism. Venezuelans are wondering whether this is a new wave of oppression or a permanent one,” Victoria said. “I want to help rebuild democratic institutions in Venezuela. I hope for a transformation like the one we’ve seen in South Africa and Colombia.”
Human rights lawyer Ezequiel also spoke to NOS. His work is focused on documenting human rights violations. “Defending human rights is considered a criminal offense in Venezuela.” He, too, hopes that things will turn around. “We hope for peace; that’s what we’ve always worked for, so that continues to motivate us to keep going.”