Esqs. Monjas a San Francisco,
Hemiciclo. Palacio Federal Legislativo,
Carmelitas, Av Sur 2,
Caracas, Capital District,
Venezuela
Date: January 23, 2024.
Subject: About Draft Law on 'Inspection, Regularization, Performance and Financing of Non-Governmental and Related Organizations' (Proyecto de Ley de Fiscalización, Regularización, Actuación y Financiamientos de las Organizaciones No Gubernamentales y Afines)
Mr. Jorge Jesús Rodríguez Gómez,
The decision of the National Assembly of Venezuela that you preside over, which seeks to resume the discussion of the so-called Proyecto de Ley de Fiscalización, Regularización, Actuación y Financiamientos de las Organizaciones No Gubernamentales y Afines"is a cause for deep concern for us.
This bill, instead of strengthening democracy, appears to be yet another attempt to exert undue control, limit and, even more alarmingly, criminally prosecute non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that play an essential role in Venezuelan society.
The conjuncture of a possible presidential election in 2024 adds an additional level of concern, so restricting the work of NGOs at a critical time like this suggests a manipulation of institutions to silence critical voices and limit citizen participation.
Beyond the political implications, the text of the bill departs from international human rights standards, thus posing a serious threat to the work of NGOs, humanitarian organizations, and other members of civil society in Venezuela.
The contradiction with international norms evidences a lack of commitment to the fundamental principles that protect human rights. This bill, instead of encouraging transparency and accountability, appears to be a shameful effort to limit the ability of NGOs to advocate for the rights of all people in Venezuela.
It is for this reason that we make a strong call to immediately put an end to this bill and to stop any attempt to attack, control, prosecute or censor civil society organizations is a just and necessary call. Protecting the rights of all people, especially those most in need, should be a top priority for any government committed to the well-being of its people and respect for democratic principles.
Such actions would not only jeopardize the essential work of NGOs, but would also leave beneficiaries at unacceptable risk, subjecting them to the possibility of criminalization and reprisals. We fervently advocate for the preservation of civil society in Venezuela.
It is imperative that the valuable work of civil associations, foundations and non-governmental organizations not be restricted or criminalized. The imposition of abusive measures or the threat of criminal prosecution would represent a clear violation of fundamental rights, including the rights of association and privacy.
For us, citizen participation and diversity of voices are essential for the strengthening of democracy and the protection of human rights.
Kind regards,
This letter was written addressed to Jorge Jesús Rodríguez Gómez but the following addresses were also contacted to help relay it.
•Mr. Nicolás Maduro Moros.
•Mr. Tarek William Saab.
• Mr. Remigio Ceballos Ichaso.
• Mr. Alfredo Ruiz Angulo.
•Mr. Jorge Valero Briceño.
•Ms. Claudia Salerno Caldera.
•Diplomatic representation of Venezuela in the Netherlands.
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