RFK Human Rights and Foro Penal celebrate the recent decision made by the Appeals Chamber of the International Criminal Court (ICC) concerning the investigation pertaining to the situation in Venezuela I. The Chamber’s findings indicate that the State of Venezuela has not initiated, and does not appear inclined to initiate, meaningful investigations into the commission of crimes against humanity in Venezuela.

In the course of the appeals process, the Chamber had the opportunity to hear the Prosecutor, State representatives, and the representatives of victims, with significant involvement from RFK Human Rights and Foro Penal.

In November 2023, the organizations jointly submitted written representations outlining the interests and concerns of victims should the ICC investigation be halted in favor of local jurisdiction. The Appeals Chamber duly considered these submissions in its rationale for authorizing the continuation of the investigation.

Despite legal attempts to stop the Prosecutor’s investigation, the ICC has unequivocally ruled that, as it stands, the Venezuelan government does not show genuine intent to undertake a thorough investigation into the alleged commission of crimes against humanity in the country.

This ruling brings hope to the thousands of victims within Venezuela and those living in exile, assuring them that international criminal justice is not a hollow promise but a lifeline of hope to hold on to when all other judicial institutions have failed them.

RFK Human Rights and Foro Penal will continue working closely with local and global partners in the collective pursuit of justice for the Venezuelan people.