In a significant diplomatic move, Morocco has joined a wide international coalition that includes countries from the European Union and Latin America, in issuing a joint statement calling for an end to repression and a neutral international investigation into the results of the recent presidential elections in Venezuela.
This stance emerged during a meeting held in the Dominican capital, Santo Domingo, on Friday, August 16, 2024, with the participation of more than 23 countries to discuss the escalating political crisis in Venezuela following the presidential elections in which Nicolás Maduro declared victory for a third term.
These results have sparked widespread controversy, as they have been rejected by the Venezuelan opposition, the United States, the European Union, and several Latin American nations. The United Nations has also released a report questioning the integrity of the electoral process.
The joint statement included several key points:
- A call for restraint and thoughtful management of the Venezuelan crisis.
- An affirmation of the necessity to respect democratic principles and human rights, particularly the right to peaceful protest and freedom of expression.
- A demand for the immediate release of political prisoners and an end to violence against demonstrators.
- A call for the return of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Office to Venezuela.
- A request for the publication of the original electoral records and the conduct of a neutral and independent investigation into the election results.
- An encouragement for comprehensive national dialogue to achieve reconciliation, peace, and democracy in Venezuela.
Morocco’s participation in this statement marks an important step that reflects its commitment to democratic values and human rights on the international stage, affirming its active role in global issues. It also highlights the significance of international cooperation in addressing political crises and enhancing global stability.
