Three Venezuelan human rights advocates who were brought to the Netherlands by a human rights organization a few months ago are now stuck here due to the uncertain situation in their home country. Returning is currently too risky for them, and their residency permits have been extended, NOS reports.
The two human rights lawyers and a political activist came to the Netherlands at the initiative of Justice & Peace. The human rights organization invited them to come stay here for three months as part of its Shelter City program, giving the three advocates an opportunity to temporarily lead a normal life without fear of persecution. The program’s goal is for them to then be able to continue their work at home with renewed vigor.
When Venezuelan airspace closed early in December, it was already clear that they would not be able to return as planned. But the United States’ kidnapping of President Nicolas Maduro made their return even more uncertain.
“It’s not nice for them to be here while things are escalating at home,” Maral Kajeh of Justice & Peace told NOS. “But human rights defenders are among the first people to suffer the consequences for speaking out.”
The organization is working with the three Venezuelans to determine how and when they can go home. “We’ve been working with people at risk in their home countries for years. Despite the risk, they always want to return,” Kajeh said.
Human rights lawyer and academic Victoria is one of the three. She is at risk of being arrested in Venezuela because of her work. “We face many obstacles in defending our clients. Unfortunately, lawyers sometimes become victims themselves as a result.”
She told the broadcaster that her time in the Netherlands has done her good. “There’s a good quality of life here. Over the past few months, I’ve been able to do my academic work safely. As a result, I experienced less stress and feel much better, both mentally and physically.”
Three Venezuelan human rights defenders stuck in the Netherlands
