During our long-standing presence in Latin America, working with free and autonomous trade unions — including in Venezuela — CNV has been concerned about the democratic legitimacy of the Venezuelan government, as well as the human rights situation in the country. Nevertheless, sustainable change must be driven by the Venezuelan people themselves, through peaceful and democratic means, with full respect for their will expressed through credible and verifiable elections.
CNV is deeply concerned about the recent U.S. military operation in Venezuela and reports that President Nicolás Maduro and Cilia Flores have been taken into custody.
CNV underscores the primacy of the UN Charter and international law, including respect for sovereignty and the obligation to seek peaceful solutions.
We urge all actors to exercise maximum restraint, prevent further escalation and prioritise the protection of civilians and respect for fundamental rights.
We urge the EU and the Dutch government to support de-escalation through multilateral diplomacy and to defend civic space and stand up for workers' rights, including the right to organise in independent unions and bargain collectively, in line with core ILO conventions.
Publication date 06 01 2026
Independent trade unions crucial to get out of crisis in Venezuela
Venezuelan Nurse Macuare released
ILO urges Venezuela to engage in frank, results-driven social dialogue to guarantee fundamental labor rights