Introductory text

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

Having regard to the Treaty on European Union, and in particular Article 29 thereof,

Having regard to the proposal from the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy,

Whereas:

The Union remains deeply concerned at the continuing deterioration of democracy, the rule of law and human rights in Venezuela.

On 15 May 2017, the Council adopted conclusions calling on all Venezuelan political actors and institutions to work in a constructive manner towards a solution to the crisis in the country while fully respecting the rule of law and human rights, democratic institutions and the separation of powers. It also stated that the release of jailed political opponents and respect for constitutional rights are crucial steps in building trust and helping the country to regain political stability.

The Union has repeatedly expressed its full support for the efforts in Venezuela to facilitate an urgent, constructive and effective dialogue between the Government and the parliamentary majority in order to create the conditions for peaceful solutions to the multidimensional challenges the country faces.

The Union has strongly encouraged the facilitation of external cooperation to address the most urgent needs of the population and has fully committed to helping Venezuela find peaceful and democratic solutions, including through support for regional and international efforts to that end.

On 26 July 2017, the Union expressed concern at the numerous reports of human rights violations and excessive use of force, and called on the Venezuelan authorities to respect the Constitution of Venezuela (‘the Constitution’) and the rule of law and to ensure that fundamental rights and freedoms, including the right to peaceful demonstration, are guaranteed.

On 2 August 2017, the Union expressed its deep regret at the decision of the Venezuelan authorities to continue with the election of a Constituent Assembly, a decision that durably worsened the crisis in Venezuela and risked undermining other legitimate institutions foreseen by the Constitution, such as the National Assembly. While calling on all parties to refrain from violence and on the authorities to ensure full respect for all human rights, and while expressing readiness to assist on all issues which could alleviate the everyday situation of the Venezuelan people, the Union also indicated its readiness to gradually step up its response in case democratic principles were further undermined and the Constitution was not respected.

In this context and in line with the Declaration by the Union of 2 August 2017, targeted restrictive measures should be imposed against certain natural and legal persons responsible for serious human rights violations or abuses or the repression of civil society and democratic opposition and persons, entities and bodies whose actions, policies or activities undermine democracy or the rule of law in Venezuela, as well as persons, entities and bodies associated with them.

Furthermore, in view of the risk of further violence, excessive use of force and violations or abuses of human rights, it is appropriate to impose restrictive measures in the form of an arms embargo as well as specific measures to place restrictions on equipment that might be used for internal repression and to prevent the misuse of communication equipment.

The restrictive measures should be gradual, targeted, flexible and reversible, without affecting the general population and should aim at fostering a credible and meaningful process that can lead to a peaceful negotiated solution.

Further action by the Union is needed in order to implement certain measures,

HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION: