Opposition lawmakers are attacked by pro-government militias who are trying to force their way into the National Assembly during a special session coinciding with Venezuela’s independence day, in Caracas, Wednesday, July 5, 2017. At least five lawmakers were injured in the attack. Despite the violence, lawmakers later approved a plan by the opposition to hold a symbolic referendum July 16 to give voters the chance to reject President Nicolas Maduro’s plans to carry out a constituent assembly. (AP Photos/Fernando Llano)
JOINT DECLARATION ON THE SITUATION IN VENEZUELA
July 26, 2017
The following countries, members of the Organization of American States (OAS), Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Panama, Paraguay, Peru and the United States of America:
Express our profound concern for the serious alteration of the democratic order in Venezuela, the worsening crisis, and the increase in violence.
Call urgently for the absolute respect for human rights, and constitutional order, including the separation of powers, and, in this regard, condemn the attack on the National Assembly and other acts of violence.
Urge the government of Venezuela to suspend the National Constituent Assembly process, which would mean the definitive dismantling of the democratic institutional framework and would run contrary to the popular will expressed in the public consultation on July 16.
Declare our willingness to support initiatives to address the most urgent economic, social, and humanitarian needs, especially the delivery of food and medicines.
Express anew the importance of establishing as soon as possible a group or other facilitation mechanism to support a process of dialogue and negotiation between the government and opposition as a means to contribute to the reestablishment of the democratic order in Venezuela, and to accompany and promote the timely fulfillment of commitments undertaken by the parties.
