The European Union, in a statement delivered on 26 June 2026 at the 62nd session of the UN Human Rights Council, called on Venezuelan authorities to release all remaining political prisoners, end arbitrary detentions and enforced disappearances, and dismantle detention centres used for torture. The EU also urged the government to grant unfettered access to all regions and detention centres for the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), following the issuance of visas to OHCHR staff as a positive step. The statement was made during an interactive dialogue following the High Commissioner's report on Venezuela.
The EU expressed solidarity with the Venezuelan people after recent earthquakes and welcomed the continued release of detainees, including dual and foreign citizens, while demanding regular consular access for EU dual nationals still in detention. The EU encouraged institutional reforms, noting the adoption of a general amnesty law, the announced closure of the Helicoide prison, and the appointment of a new Attorney General and Defensora del Pueblo as important first steps, but stressed that further reforms in full compliance with international human rights law are needed. The EU also called for the free participation of all political actors in public life and expressed concern over repression against dissenting voices, urging respect for freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly, and association. The EU reiterated its willingness to engage constructively with Venezuelan authorities and support a Venezuelan-led dialogue towards democracy and rule of law.