Venezuela Passes Amnesty Bill Denounced by Some as ‘Unjust’

NYT Homepage

by Max Bearak, Annie Correal, Patricia Sulbarán, Isayen Herrera and Genevieve Glatsky

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Venezuela’s lawmakers have passed an amnesty bill that could lead to the release of hundreds of political prisoners, marking a potential shift in the country's repressive policies under pressure from the United States. The legislation, which has been criticized as "unjust" by some, applies only to prisoners detained during specific protests and excludes those facing serious charges like violence or armed offenses. While supporters argue it is long overdue, critics highlight its limitations, particularly its reliance on a judiciary system seen as compromised. The bill’s passage comes amid growing international pressure, with the U.S. urging Venezuelan leader Delcy Rodríguez to pursue democratic reforms and economic changes aligned with American interests. Over decades of authoritarian rule under former President Hugo Chávez and his successors, thousands of Venezuelans and foreigners have been detained, often on fabricated charges tied to political opposition. While the amnesty law could free a significant number of prisoners, its exclusivity has raised concerns. Rights groups note that those accused of violent crimes or linked to fabricated evidence are ineligible for release, leaving many political detainees still behind bars. The bill’s focus on limited cases has also drawn criticism, with some activists arguing it does not go far enough to address systemic human rights abuses. The legislation reflects broader efforts by the interim government to respond to international pressure and ease tensions. However, its narrow scope and reliance on a flawed judicial system have left many questioning its impact. The bill’s approval highlights the ongoing struggles of Venezuela’s political landscape, where balancing justice with regime stability remains a daunting challenge. For readers interested in global human rights issues and Latin American politics, this development underscores the complexities of authoritarian governance and international diplomacy. While it may signal progress for some, others view it as a missed opportunity to address deeper systemic issues. The debate over the amnesty bill continues to divide Venezuelans and draw attention from the international community.

Verticals

newsgeneral

Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/20/2026