July 06, 2025

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Venezuelan lawmakers declare UN human rights chief persona non grata

Venezuelan lawmakers declare UN human rights chief persona non grata

Summary

Venezuela's National Assembly declared UN Human Rights Chief Volker Turk "persona non grata" after he criticized the government's human rights practices. This decision came after Turk spoke about reported arrests and disappearances in Venezuela. While this label has no immediate effects, it could lead to the expulsion of his office from the country.

Key Facts

  • Venezuela's National Assembly voted unanimously against Volker Turk.
  • Turk had criticized Venezuela's human rights record during a UN meeting.
  • The Assembly President, Jorge Rodriguez, accused Turk of ignoring other issues.
  • Turk previously spoke out about the deportation of Venezuelans from the US.
  • Many human rights groups have criticized Venezuela for cracking down on the opposition.
  • Declaring someone "persona non grata" might lead to their expulsion.
  • Tensions rose after President Maduro's claimed election victory in 2024.
  • The Venezuelan government cracked down on dissent following the election.

Source Information