Venezuelan lawmakers criminalize economic sanctions as crimes against humanity

In Venezuela, on Thursday, lawmakers approved a controversial new bill that codifies economic sanctions, similar to those imposed by the United States, as crimes against humanity. This measure was passed by the National Assembly and is chiefly aimed at opposition figures who have supported these sanctions in an effort to pressure the government. The legislation bans citizens who support sanctions from running for office and includes severe penalties, allowing for prosecution in absentia and the seizure of property. A conviction under this law could lead to a prison sentence of a minimum of 25 years. The backdrop to this legislation is deeply rooted in the ongoing political tension in Venezuela, particularly following the disputed presidential elections held on July 28. The government's claim of victory for President Nicolás Maduro has been met with significant skepticism, as opposition leaders, including Edmundo González, have argued that they actually won. Instead of conventional vote counting, the Venezuelan National Electoral Council, filled with loyalists to Maduro, quickly announced Maduro's win without providing comprehensive vote count details. Opposition groups, which collected data from 80% of electronic voting machines, contended that their analyses indicated González received double the votes of Maduro. The passing of this law is perceived as part of a broader strategy to silence dissent and oppress any challenges to the Maduro regime, particularly in light of rising anti-government protests. Following the election's conclusion, protests erupted across the country, resulting in widespread crackdowns that led to the arrest of over 2,200 individuals, among them political leaders and protesters. The oppressive tactics have made it extraordinarily difficult for opposition leaders to operate within the country. For instance, González fled to Spain after a warrant for his arrest was issued, and Maria Corina Machado remains in hiding due to fears of persecution for opposing the government and advocating for sanctions. The Attorney General's Office has intensified its investigations into Machado, suggesting that her comments regarding U.S. sanctions indicate treason and conspiracy against the state. This hostile political climate stems from the Venezuelan government's attempt to maintain control amid severe economic challenges exacerbated by the very sanctions they seek to villainize. The consequences of this new legislation further complicate Venezuela's political landscape, raising international concerns about human rights and governance in the country.