Venezuela passes amnesty law for political prisoners
Deutsche Welle
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Venezuela's National Assembly has passed a landmark amnesty law that could free hundreds of political prisoners jailed for criticizing the government. The bill, signed by Acting President Delcy Rodriguez, marks a significant shift in policy following the removal of former President Nicolas Maduro and aims to address decades of human rights abuses. While the law offers forgiveness to those detained for political protests or violent actions over the past few decades, it notably excludes individuals accused of promoting military interventions, such as Nobel Peace Prize winner Maria Corina Machado. The move has sparked mixed reactions, with some hailing it as a step toward healing but others expressing concerns about its scope and potential biases.
The amnesty law targets prisoners detained for political reasons, including those involved in the 2002 coup attempt and subsequent protests. According to human rights group Foro Penal, over 600 individuals remain behind bars after Maduro's ousting, many facing harsh conditions due to their opposition to government policies. While the bill provides a pathway for exoneration, it does not restore assets, lift media sanctions, or revoke public office bans. Exiles must return to Venezuela and cease any actions deemed illegal under the law to qualify for amnesty.
The exclusion of those accused of promoting military action has raised eyebrows, particularly in cases like Machado's, who is alleged by the government to have called for international intervention. UN human rights experts have criticized the law's exclusions, urging it to focus on victims of human rights violations while explicitly excluding those accused of serious crimes. This tension highlights the delicate balance between addressing past wrongs and ensuring justice for all.
The passage of the amnesty law comes after a turbulent period in Venezuela's history, with Maduro's removal marking a turning point. While the bill is seen as a step forward by some, others worry it may not go far enough to address systemic issues or ensure fair treatment for all political prisoners. The law's implementation will be crucial in determining its impact on Venezuela's fractured political landscape and its ability to foster reconciliation.
For readers interested in global politics and human rights, this development underscores the ongoing struggles for justice and democracy in Venezuela. The amnesty law represents a significant shift in policy but also raises questions about how far it will go to address decades of repression and inequality. As the country moves forward, the successful implementation of this law could play a key role in its path
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Originally published on Deutsche Welle on 2/20/2026