The Peruvian state, based on its commitments to international law, has an obligation to guarantee democracy and, within that framework, the right of civil society to associate and express itself. However, we are facing a serious situation in which civic space is being closed off, with various warning signs that urgently need to be addressed.

Venezuelan civil society has resisted for years, went to the polls, organized to collect the records, count the votes, and is demanding in the streets, despite fear, that the popular mandate be respected. Let us hope that world leaders and important human rights organizations from outside the country will not leave it alone.

Colombia must demand an end to human rights violations and the immediate publication of the results and recount, with international verification to ensure credibility and prevent further violence and repression.