The undersigned regional networks and other civil society organisations defending freedom of expression in Latin America and the Caribbean denounce the disappearance of Carlos Correa, Executive Director of Espacio Público, and demand his immediate release and safe return.
Correa was intercepted on January 7 at around 5:00 p.m. in downtown Caracas by alleged state officials—individuals dressed in black, with their faces covered, and without identification—who forced him into a brown, unmarked vehicle. This type of procedure has previously been used by state security forces to carry out arbitrary detentions and forced disappearances of human rights defenders, political actors, and critics of Nicolás Maduro’s government.
Carlos Correa is a renowned journalist, researcher, professor, and human rights activist with over 20 years of experience in defending and promoting freedom of expression in Venezuela. Since his capture, there has been no communication with his family or trusted legal counsel, in blatant violation of human rights and due process as established in the Venezuelan Penal Code.
We stress that this forced disappearance occurs in a context of intensified harassment and systematic persecution against civil society actors and organizations representing critical voices in defense of civil and political liberties. This situation has been documented by international bodies such as the United Nations’ Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Venezuela.
According to his family, Correa suffers from health issues requiring immediate treatment, making the state responsible for ensuring his access to necessary medications to preserve his physical and psychological well-being.
We demand that the Venezuelan state:
- Immediately disclose Correa’s whereabouts.
- Protect Correa’s physical and psychological integrity, guaranteeing his access to ongoing medical treatments required for his health.
- Allow communications between Correa and his family, as well as trusted legal counsel, in compliance with legal obligations and respect for his right to due process.
- Grant Correa’s full and immediate release.