Event Summary
Between 25 and 27 December 2025, news emerged of the release from detention of 61 individuals held for political reasons in Venezuela. The information was initially disseminated through media outlets and social media and was later confirmed by several Venezuelan organizations working on this issue. According to the Ministry of Popular Power for Prison Services’ statement, the released individuals were imprisoned for acts of violence following the elections on 28 July 2024.
Subsequently, on 1 January 2026, Venezuelan organizations confirmed the release of an additional 54 individuals detained under the same circumstances. In total, 115 people were released; however, this does not constitute full freedom, as judicial proceedings and precautionary measures remain in place, including requirements such as mandatory court appearances every 30 days.
According to human rights organizations, those released were forced to sign documents certifying that they had received dignified treatment and that they were in perfect health at the time of their release. Additionally, it has been documented that they were prohibited from speaking with the media or with human rights organizations.
Likewise, human rights defenders and organizations warn that, since these are releases subject to precautionary measures, there is a risk that such measures may be revoked. This has occurred in the past, in cases where, up to six years after release, precautionary measures were overturned, resulting in individuals being returned to detention centers.
In addition to the above, organizations report that the conditions under which these releases take place are often undignified, as they may occur in the early hours of the morning and involve individuals being transferred and dropped off in arbitrary locations, placing an additional burden on families who must then locate their relatives.
Despite these releases, the number of individuals who remain detained for political reasons is estimated to range between 800 and 1,000, some of whom are foreign nationals or hold dual nationality, according to reports and records maintained by various organizations. Of this total, up to 68 individuals are currently in a situation of enforced disappearance.