Delivered by: H.E. Ms Anna Jardfelt, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of Sweden to the UN in Geneva
Madame President,
Madame High Commissioner,
Sweden fully aligns itself with the statement made by the European Union and thanks the High Commissioner for her report on the human rights situation in Venezuela.
The High Commissioner’s report highlights a continuation of gross human rights violations, including extrajudicial executions, and continued widespread repression of political opponents, human rights defenders, humanitarian workers, trade union leaders as well as the criminalization of journalists and media outlets.
We welcome the recent statements opening for renewed political negotiations and expect such efforts to be based on the respect for human rights including the restitution of civil and political rights. We hope that the National Electoral Council can contribute to free and fair regional and local elections on November 21st, as a step towards the reinstatement of democracy, rule of law and human rights in Venezuela.
I thank you.