We thank the High Commissioner for her report. Australia continues to hold grave concerns for the human rights of Venezuelans.

We have serious concerns about the political, economic, social and humanitarian situation in Venezuela, particularly regarding democratic processes.

We are deeply concerned by the ongoing repression and attacks on political actors, human rights defenders, humanitarian organisations, journalists and media workers. These trends are even more alarming in the context of widespread corruption, lack of judicial independence, the use of arbitrary detention and torture, and impunity for human rights violations and abuses.

We recognise and commend Venezuela’s neighbours for their response to the migration crisis caused by conditions in Venezuela.

We urge all parties to return to negotiations that help identify a peaceful and democratic resolution to the situation in the country.

We encourage Venezuela to engage with international human rights instruments and mechanisms, and work with humanitarian organisations to address the ongoing humanitarian emergency.

We ask the High Commissioner how the international community can promote  accountability for attacks on human rights defenders and humanitarian organisations to better support agencies assisting the Venezuelan people.