"Maduro resumes the annulment of passports for journalists and human rights defenders."

In a context of growing political tension, the government of Nicolás Maduro has reactivated the annulment of passports for journalists, activists, and human rights defenders, a measure that has raised alarms in Venezuelan civil society. Since the presidential elections held on July 28, at least 16 cases of citizens whose identity documents have been canceled have been documented, according to Carlos Correa, director of the non-governmental organization Espacio Público. The implications of this action are profound, as it constitutes a clear violation of the fundamental rights enshrined in the National Constitution of Venezuela. Correa emphasizes that this measure undermines the right to free movement and mobility, placing those affected in a vulnerable situation. The arbitrariness of the annulments has been corroborated by testimonies from individuals who have faced not only the loss of their passports but also unjustified detentions. At Simón Bolívar International Airport in Maiquetía, where passport verifications are conducted, the annulments have been confirmed, although the reasons behind these actions remain unclear. Sources close to the Administrative Service of Identification, Migration and Foreigners (Saime) indicate that decisions are not made regionally but originate from higher authorities, suggesting centralized control over citizens' mobility. Historically, Maduro's administration has used this tactic as a mechanism of social control. Between 2016 and 2019, politicians, artists, and human rights defenders also experienced the suspension of their passports, preventing them from flying out of the country. However, after a brief period of calm, this policy seems to have resurfaced with the same goal of silencing any criticism that threatens the status quo. Fear of repression has taken hold of the community of activists and human rights defenders. A university professor and activist who prefers to remain anonymous has shared her experience with the annulment of her passport, which was still valid until 2032. "For now, I don't plan to apply for another one or travel. It would be an unnecessary risk," she confesses, reflecting the uncertainty and panic that this situation has caused. The detention of prominent figures, such as lawyer Aura Janesky Lehmann and humanitarian activist Edni López, has raised alarms in the academic and social sectors. Both were detained at the airport, accused of irregularities related to their passports, creating an atmosphere of unease that extends beyond the confines of the human rights defenders' community. Another case that has sparked concern is that of activist Yendri Velásquez. When attempting to leave the country to participate in a session of the UN Committee on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination, his passport was annulled, and after six hours of detention, he was released. However, this experience prevented him from presenting a crucial report to the international community, highlighting the severe consequences of these actions on human rights advocacy in the country. The annulment of passports and arbitrary detentions not only affect the individuals directly involved but also have a chilling effect on other organizations. The fear of reprisals has led many to refrain from participating in international events or making presentations, limiting the visibility of the human rights situation in Venezuela. As the crisis continues to deepen, the international community is closely watching these developments. However, the response expected from international organizations faces the reality of a government that has shown a steadfast resistance to yielding to external pressure. The annulment of passports and the repression of critical voices are just two manifestations of a regime that clings to power while ignoring the demands for freedom and justice from its people. In this scenario, solidarity among activists, journalists, and human rights defenders becomes more crucial than ever. The struggle for respect for fundamental rights in Venezuela is far from over, and as repressive actions intensify, civil resistance and international support could be key to challenging the darkness enveloping the country.