Venezuela receives more than 1,500 amnesty requests under new law
Al Jazeera
February 21, 2026
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Venezuela has seen a surge in amnesty requests following the recent implementation of a US-backed law, with over 1,500 political prisoners applying for release. According to National Assembly chief Jorge Rodriguez, 379 individuals have already been freed, including opposition members, activists, and human rights defenders who were detained for months or even years. This marks a significant shift in the country's political landscape, as Venezuelan authorities had long denied holding political prisoners.
The amnesty law was pushed through by interim President Delcy Rodríguez after she rose to power following the US-backed abduction of former president Nicolás Maduro. While the legislation aims to promote national reconciliation, it has faced criticism for excluding certain groups, such as those accused of terrorism or facilitating foreign-led armed actions. Human rights organizations have condemned these exclusions, arguing that they perpetuate discrimination and undermine constitutional principles.
Despite the criticisms, hundreds of prisoners are being released under the law, which also allows for conditional releases and house arrest orders to be lifted. Relatives of detainees, who had been waiting patiently outside facilities like Zone 7 in Caracas, expressed hope for their loved ones' freedom. The law's broader implications remain uncertain, but its passage signals a potential shift toward political tolerance after decades of repression.
Opposition figures and human rights groups continue to call for the law's application to all politically motivated detentions, including those excluded under current provisions. As Venezuela grapples with its fragile economy and humanitarian challenges, the success of this amnesty effort could pave the way for greater dialogue and national healing—or further divisions if exclusions are not addressed.
This development is significant for global readers interested in world politics, as it highlights ongoing tensions between Venezuela's government and international actors like the US. The situation in Venezuela underscores the complex interplay of domestic politics, human rights, and external influence in shaping its future.
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/21/2026