Devastating earthquakes hit Venezuela on 24 June 2026, leaving in their wake countless victims, including thousands of people killed, injured, displaced, unhoused, or otherwise affected. Constantly rising official figures are considered to not yet represent the extent of the disaster. Venezuelan authorities must ensure that human rights law and standards guide relief operations. Special measures are needed to protect people in situations of heightened vulnerability, including children and older people. The role of journalists who offer critical information to the public must be protected. We call on the acting president to ensure relief efforts respect humanitarian principles and human rights law.
