Amnesty International submitted a legal brief to an Argentine court, urging them to investigate and prosecute individuals responsible for crimes against humanity in Venezuela.
The brief, filed on February 26, 2024, argues that Argentina has the legal authority to pursue these charges under the principle of universal jurisdiction, which allows countries to prosecute individuals for certain international crimes regardless of where they were committed.
This action comes in response to a lawsuit filed in June 2023 by victims and the Clooney Foundation for Justice, highlighting the lack of an independent judiciary in Venezuela. Amnesty International further emphasizes the ineffectiveness of Venezuela's justice system in handling such cases, citing the lack of "will or capacity" to investigate and hold perpetrators accountable, especially those in high positions.
The organization supports this initiative as an alternative way to achieve justice for victims, considering the ongoing investigations by the UN and the International Criminal Court (ICC). Additionally, the recent expulsion of the UN human rights office from Venezuela further underscores the need for alternative avenues for accountability.
Amnesty International Argentina's director, Mariela Belski, emphasizes the urgency of the situation. Belski highlights the worsening human rights violations in Venezuela, including arbitrary detentions, disappearances, and attacks on human rights defenders. She views Argentina's involvement as a crucial step towards stopping these crimes and holding perpetrators accountable.
Background on Universal Jurisdiction
- International law allows any state to investigate and prosecute individuals for specific international crimes, provided sufficient evidence exists.
- This power becomes an obligation under certain circumstances, such as when the suspect is present within the state's jurisdiction.
- According to Amnesty International, over 85% of countries worldwide (163 states) recognize the principle of universal jurisdiction.
