Religions for Peace Calls for Respect for International Law, Access for Humanitarian Aid and Dialogue for Peace in Venezuela

A Statement from the Religions for Peace Executive Committee

19 January, New York, NY: In light of recent events in Venezuela, religious leaders around the world stand in solidarity with the Venezuelan people and want to emphasize the importance of prioritizing their well-being and respect for human rights, sovereignty and rule of law.

The Religions for Peace fraternity is profoundly alarmed by the recent developments. The sovereignty and territorial integrity of states must remain inviolate as per the United Nations Charter. Any use of military force must strictly comply with international humanitarian law. The protection of civilians must be ensured above all.

We are mindful of credible concerns regarding allegations of human rights violations and the deep and prolonged suffering experienced by many Venezuelans, underscoring the importance of protection, accountability, and justice pursued through lawful and internationally recognized mechanisms. As soon as conditions allow, an inclusive dialogue that brings together the diverse voices of Venezuelan society must be initiated and sustained to build democracy and peace.

Solidarity with the Venezuelan People

Religions for Peace recognizes that the people of Venezuela continue to bear the greatest burden of the current crisis. They are a population grieving under the weight of a decade-long crisis that has seen millions flee their homes and millions more suffer from systemic collapse. This suffering includes widespread displacement, acute humanitarian hardship, and sustained constraints on the enjoyment of fundamental rights, calling for continued international attention and accompaniment.

Our primary commitment is to the shared sacred flourishing of these citizens, ensuring that  the polity serves their best interests and fully respects their fundamental human rights.

A Global Appeal

In the spirit of our shared humanity and faith, religious leaders make the following urgent calls and appeals:

The Critical Need to Respect International Law

We express grave concern about developments that risk eroding sovereignty and the violation of international legal norms. The pursuit of justice must not become a pretext for the violation of the United Nations Charter. Respect for sovereignty and the rule of law must go hand in hand with credible, impartial processes that address serious allegations of abuse and uphold the rights of victims to truth and redress.

We are particularly concerned about the global precedent that may be set by the recent actions taken outside multilateral frameworks. Unilateral interventions risk weakening the rules-based international order that protects the sovereignty and security of all nations. The presence of foreign military forces must be authorized according to the Constitutions of the involved countries. While we acknowledge the aspirations of some for democratic change within Venezuela, we maintain that such change must be achieved through a transparent, lawful, and peaceful process that ensures free and fair elections.

At the same time, accountability for serious crimes is essential and must be pursued through credible, impartial, and internationally recognized legal mechanisms.

Ensuring Unhindered Access for Humanitarian Aid

The humanitarian situation in Venezuela is no longer just a national issue; it is a global crisis. We call on all parties—regardless of political or military status—to guarantee unhindered, safe, and sustained access for humanitarian aid.

The role of faith communities in this regard cannot be overstated. Faith-based institutions are often on the front lines of aid delivery. They must be protected and enabled to reach the most vulnerable populations without political interference or intimidation.

The protection of civilians is paramount. We reaffirm that the safeguarding of civilian lives and human dignity must remain a central priority of all actors currently operating within the country.

A Call for Inclusive Dialogue and Reconciliation

Peace cannot be imposed from the outside; it must be grown from within. We call for an inclusive dialogue by and for the people of Venezuela that brings together the diverse voices of Venezuelan society. Such dialogue must be meaningful and inclusive, contributing not only to stability but also to public trust, accountability, and the peaceful renewal of democratic life.

We encourage a process of national reconciliation that addresses the different shades of opinion within the country and not an imposition from outside.

Let this moment be a turning point —from prolonged suffering to healing, from fear to hope, from impunity to accountability grounded in justice and law.

We stand in solidarity with the people of Venezuela who have endured untold violence and displacement. People imprisoned for political reasons must be released. Silence in the face of such suffering is not an option. As religious leaders and people of faith, we reaffirm the sacred value of every human life and our unwavering commitment to peace, justice, and reconciliation.

Let us unite in prayer and action for Venezuela—that peace, justice, and human dignity may prevail.

As we appeal for respect of all human life, let us also harness the power of collective prayer to invoke the divine compassion that transcends boundaries. Religions for Peace invites you to join in our fervent prayers for the safety and well-being of all people in Venezuela and globally.

Together, we can be the harbingers of peace, unity, and hope in a country that yearns for reconciliation and healing. Together, we can serve as people of conscience, as voices for the voiceless, and as champions of human rights, dignity, and freedoms.