Grants and extensions

Resolution No. 92/24( EXTENSION, MODIFICATION, FOLLOW-UP, AND LIFT )
PM 143-13, 181-19 - Identified members of the organization “Foro Penal”, Venezuela

On November 28, 2024, the IACHR identified that the risk persists with respect to four persons who were beneficiaries of precautionary measures through Resolution 8/2015, Resolution 7/2019, and Resolution 64/2019. It also decided to protect 14 additional persons who are members of the same organization. The IACHR regretted the lack of information and implementation of protection measures by the State, which reportedly places the beneficiaries in a situation of lack of protection in the context of the country.

Upon analyzing the available information, the Commission decided:

  1. Extend the precautionary measures in favor of the following persons, currently members of the Foro Penal organization in Venezuela: Kennedy Tejeda, Mayela Fonseca, Lucía Quintero, Pedro Arévalo, Arelys Ayala, Wiecza Santos Matiz, Laura Valbuena, Raquel Sánchez Carrero, Franyer Jose Hernandez Valladares, and Marbella Gutiérrez;
  2. Maintain the precautionary measures in favor of Alfredo Romero, Gonzalo Himiob Santomé, Luis Betancourt, and Olnar Ortiz;
  3. Continue to monitor the situation of Olnar Ortiz under the registry of Precautionary Measures 143-13;
  4. Lift the precautionary measures regarding Yoseth Colmenares and Robiro Terán;
  5. Not to extend the measures in favor of Orlando Moreno and the other members of Foro Penal, while keeping the possibility open to submit additional information for future assessment.
  6. Modify the precautionary measures and require that the State of Venezuela:
    1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life and personal integrity of the members of Foro Penal duly identified in this resolution;
    2. implement the necessary measures to guarantee that the beneficiaries can carry out their human rights defense activities without being subjected to threats, harassment, or acts of violence. Specifically, the Commission requests a detailed report on the circumstances surrounding Kennedy Tejeda’s detention, including his current legal status and ensure that his relatives and trusted legal representatives can communicate with him. Regarding all beneficiaries, to formally inform about the existence of any investigation against them, including at least: the facts under investigation, the alleged offenses, the prosecutor’s office in charge of the investigation, and the competent judicial authority overseeing the case. The State must allow the beneficiaries and/or their representation to have access to the entire criminal file against them, if it exists, thereby allowing them to file the corresponding appeals and guaranteeing their security in the processing of the file;
    3. consult and agree upon the measures to be adopted with the beneficiaries and their representatives;
    4. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged events that led to the adoption of this precautionary measure, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 91/24
PM 1214-24 - Jhon Fernando Paladines Rubio, Nicaragua

On November 26, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of Jhon Fernando Paladines Rubio, after considering that he is in a serious and urgent situation, given that his rights to life and personal integrity face a risk of irreparable harm in Nicaragua. According to the request, the beneficiary is a businessman in Costa Rica and was traveling in Nicaragua on business. He was reportedly detained on March 9, 2024, by the Judicial Assistance Directorate of the Nicaraguan National Police at the hotel where he was staying in Managua. Since that date, his location has not been known. After several internal actions, the situation remains unchanged to date. The State of Nicaragua has not responded.

Therefore, the IACHR requests that Nicaragua:

a) adopt the necessary measures to determine the situation and whereabouts of the beneficiary, in order to protect his rights to life and personal integrity;

b) inform whether the beneficiary is in the custody of the State, the circumstances and conditions of his detention. In particular, report on the place of his detention and the criminal case file opened against him, allowing access to his legal representatives and family members, as well as the corresponding consular assistance, and ensure that he is brought before competent judicial authorities for the review and monitoring of his situation;

c) consult and agree upon the measures to be implemented with the beneficiary, his family members, and his representatives; and

d) report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged facts that gave rise to the adoption of this resolution, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 90/24
PM 330-24 - Reinaldo Picado Miranda, Costa Rica

On November 25, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of Reinaldo Picado, after considering that he is in a serious and urgent situation, given that his rights to life and personal integrity face a risk of irreparable harm. Consequently, and with the objective of assisting the State in the fulfillment of its obligations, Costa Rica is requested to adopt the necessary measures to guarantee the rights to life and personal integrity of Mr. Picado Miranda. In particular, refraining from deporting, expelling or extraditing the beneficiary to Nicaragua until the competent Costa Rican domestic administrative and/or judicial authorities have duly assessed, in accordance with applicable international standards and the principle of non-refoulement, the alleged risk that his rights to life and physical integrity would face if deprived of his liberty in Nicaragua under the current context of the country.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 88/24
PM 1237-24 - Eduardo Emiro Labrador, Venezuela

On November 25, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of Eduardo Emiro Labrador, after considering that he is in a serious and urgent situation since his rights to life and personal integrity face a risk of irreparable harm in Venezuela. According to the request, the beneficiary was detained on October 18, 2024, by agents of the Zulia Regional Police and transferred to an unknown location. The situation has continued despite several domestic remedies filed. The State did not respond. Therefore, in terms of Article 25 of the Rules of Procedure, the State of Venezuela is requested to:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life and personal integrity of Eduardo Emiro Labrador. In particular, inform whether the beneficiary is in the custody of the State and his current circumstances, or provide information on the measures aimed at determining his whereabouts or fate. The Commission deems it essential for the State to specify whether the beneficiary was brought before a court of competent jurisdiction to review his detention, if he had been charged with a crime. Otherwise, indicate the reasons why he has not been released to date. In any case, the State is requested to report on the status of the criminal file that has been opened against the beneficiary, and to allow access to family members and legal representatives. Likewise, it is required to specify whether the beneficiary has undergone a medical evaluation, and provide the corresponding documentary support;
  2. implement the necessary measures so that the beneficiary can carry out his activities, as a member of an opposition political party and a deputy of the Legislative Council of the state of Zulia, without being subjected to threats, harassment, or acts of violence;
  3. consult and agree upon the measures to be adopted with the beneficiary, his family, and his representatives; and
  4. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged facts that led to this precautionary measure, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 87/24( EXTENSION AND FOLLOW-UP )
PM 409-23 - Franklin Alfredo Caldera Cordero and family, Venezuela

The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) adopted on November 25, 2024 the Follow-up, Modification and Extension Resolution 87/2024 regarding the situation of Franklin Caldera Cordero in Venezuela (PM-125-19). The IACHR considered that the risk that places the beneficiary at risk has been observed since the granting of the precautionary measure, continues, and has been extended to his son, Franklin Caldera Martínez, as well as to his wife, Yuraima Martínez. Upon analyzing the submissions of fact and law, in the terms of Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure, the Commission concluded that the situation of Franklin Alfredo Caldera Cordero remains and it is extended to his son, Franklin Caldera Martínez, as well as to his wife, Yuraima Martínez. Consequently, the IACHR decided:

a) To continue to follow up on the situation of Franklin Alfredo Caldera Cordero;

b) To extend the precautionary measures in favor of Franklin Caldera Martínez (son) and Yuraima Martínez;

c) To modify the scope of these precautionary measures, and require that the State of Venezuela:

i. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life and personal integrity of Franklin Alfredo Caldera Cordero, Franklin Caldera Martínez and Yuraima Martínez. In the case of Franklin Caldera Martínez, the measures must include those necessary to also protect his right to health;

ii. adopt the necessary measures to guarantee that Franklin Alfredo Caldera Cordero can continue to carry out his work as a human rights defender without being subjected to threats, intimidation, harassment or acts of violence in the exercise of his duties. In particular, it must formally inform the beneficiary of the existence of any investigation process against him, including at least: the facts under investigation, the crimes he is accused of, the prosecutor’s office in charge of the investigation, and the competent judicial authority in charge of the investigation. The State must allow the beneficiary and/or his representatives to have access to the entire criminal file against him, if it exists, allowing him to file the corresponding appeals and guaranteeing his security in its processing;

iii. implement the necessary measures to ensure that the conditions of detention of Franklin Caldera Martínez (son) are compatible with the applicable international standards on the matter, among them: guarantee that he is not subjected to violence, threats, intimidation, aggression and torture inside the prison; guarantee access to adequate and specialized medical care, as well as to the necessary treatment and medication, and immediately carry out a comprehensive medical assessment of his health situation; and evaluate the possibility of granting alternative measures to the deprivation of liberty given the impossibility of protecting his rights in light of the current conditions of detention;

iv. consult and agree upon the measures to be adopted with the beneficiaries and their representation; and

v. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged facts that gave rise to the adoption and validity of these precautionary measures, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring. In particular, the State is requested to conduct an investigation with due diligence into the threats, allegations of torture and other acts of violence reported, including those that could have taken place by State officials and/or agents against the beneficiaries.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 86/24
PM 978-24 - Erika Vanessa Trochez Ortiz and Jazmín Elena Ortiz Urcue, Colombia

On November 17, 2024, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) granted precautionary measures in favor of Erika Vanessa Trochez Ortiz and Jazmín Elena Ortiz Urcue, after considering that they are in a serious and urgent situation presenting a risk of irreparable harm to their rights in Colombia. The applicant indicated that Erika Vanessa was recruited by an armed group on November 11, 2023, is being held against her will and her whereabouts are unknown at present. Likewise, her mother Jazmín Elena is reportedly receiving threats from the armed group in retaliation for searching for her daughter. Therefore, under the terms of Article 25 of the Rules of Procedure, the ICAHR requested that the State of Colombia:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to determine the situation and whereabouts of Erika Vanessa Trochez Ortiz, in order to protect her rights to life, personal integrity, and health; and protect the life and personal integrity of Jazmín Elena Ortiz Urcue;
  2. implement the necessary measures so that Jazmín Elena Ortiz Urcue can continue with her actions to search for and report on the situation of her daughter, without being subjected to threats, intimidation, harassment, and acts of violence;
  3. consult and agree upon the measures with the beneficiary Jazmín Elena Ortiz Urcue and their representatives; and
  4. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged events that led to the adoption of this precautionary measure, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 83/24
PM 934-24 - Layrton Fernandes da Cruz’s family, Brazil

On November 12, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of Layrton Fernandes da Cruz's family members, considering that he is in a serious and urgent situation presenting a risk of irreparable harm to his rights in Brazil. According to the request, the beneficiaries have received constant police raids on their residences, which have intensified after the death of Layrton, a relative of the proposed beneficiaries, which occurred on August 1, 2023, in a police operation carried out in Baixada Santista. The raids include the presence of state security agents armed with rifles under the justification of “combating drug trafficking in the region”. The police entries were recorded by security cameras installed in the residences and allegedly occurred on at least 14 occasions and at different times, including in the early hours of the morning, and in the presence of children. Such events are said to have had an intimidating effect on Layrton's relatives, who allegedly felt intimidated and their mental health was affected.

For its part, the State indicated that the protection of the beneficiaries was the subject of a judicial precautionary measure at the domestic level, which was revoked after the proceedings investigating Layrton’s death were shelved. It referred that the file of the investigation process was sent to the Corregiduría of the Military Police on July 4, 2024, and that the information on the threatening events was forwarded to the Military Justice and to the Public Prosecutor's Office responsible for the external control of the police activity.

Consequently, under the terms of Article 25 of the Rules of Procedure, the IACHR requested that Brazil:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life and integrity of the beneficiaries;
  2. consult and agree upon the measures to be implemented with the beneficiaries and their representatives; and
  3. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged events that led to the adoption of this precautionary measure, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 82/24
PM 1122-24 - S.J.R.G., Venezuela

On November 7, 2024, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) granted precautionary measures in favor of S.J.R.G., after considering that he is in a serious and urgent situation presenting a risk of irreparable harm to his rights in Venezuela. The request indicated that the beneficiary is an activist of the LGBTI community, a volunteer of the opposition political party Vente Venezuela and has been deprived of his liberty since August 6, 2024. It was alleged that he was subjected to torture, that he is in a state of malnutrition and dehydration, as well as that he does not receive the medical attention necessary to treat the HIV he suffers from. The State did not provide information on the matter. The IACHR valued the lack of information on the crimes of which the beneficiary is accused and what his legal situation is. It also considered the seriousness of the risk posed by the allegations of lack of care for HIV and the lack of knowledge of his current state of health and the actions that the State is taking to mitigate the alleged risk.

Consequently, in accordance with Article 25 of the Rules of Procedure, it requested that the State of Venezuela:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life, personal integrity, and health of S.J.R.G., in accordance with the applicable international standards;
  2. implement the necessary measures to ensure that his detention conditions are compatible with the applicable international standards on the matter. In particular, ensuring that he is provided with the necessary medical treatment, as well as water and adequate food. The Commission considers it essential for the State to specify whether the beneficiary was brought before a court of competent jurisdiction to review his detention if he has been charged with a crime. Otherwise, indicate the reasons why he has not been released to date;
  3. consult and agree upon the measures to be adopted with the beneficiary and his representatives; and
  4. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged facts that gave rise to this resolution, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 80/24
PM 1150-24 - Jan Darmovzal, Venezuela

On October 31, 2024, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights granted precautionary measures in favor of Jan Darmovzal after considering that he is in a serious and urgent situation presenting a risk of irreparable harm to his rights in Venezuela.

According to the request, the beneficiary is an active reservist in the Venezuelan Army and was traveling in Venezuela for tourism. The beneficiary was reportedly arrested on September 5, 2024, by State security agents in the town of Atabapo, Amazonas State. Since that date his whereabouts have not been known. It was alleged that no arrest warrant was issued, nor an investigation against him. Likewise, he is reportedly being held incommunicado, and it has not been made known in which security agency he is being held, nor has there been any information on his physical or psychological condition.

Consequently, the Commission requests that Venezuela:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life and personal integrity of the beneficiary. In particular, inform whether the beneficiary is in the custody of the State and the circumstances of his detention, or provide information on the measures aimed at determining his whereabouts or fate. The Commission considers it essential for the State to specify whether the beneficiary was brought before a court of competent jurisdiction to review his detention if he had been charged with a crime. Otherwise, indicate the reasons why he has not been released to date. In any case, it requests that the State specify whether the beneficiary has undergone a medical evaluation, and to provide the relevant documentary support and indicate whether communication has been maintained with his country of nationality; and
  2. report on the actions taken in order to investigate the alleged events that led to the adoption of this precautionary measure, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 79/24
PM 896-24 - Leocenis Manuel García Osorio, Venezuela

On October 28, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of Leocenis Manuel García Osorio, considering that he is in a serious and urgent situation presenting a risk of irreparable harm to his rights in Venezuela. According to the request, the proposed beneficiary is a leader of the political party “ProCiudadanos” in Venezuela. According to the request, he was detained by state agents on September 11, 2024, after posting a video on his social networks criticizing recent government actions towards Venezuelans. The beneficiary’s father tried to obtain official information on his whereabouts or state of health, without receiving a response. Family members have been unable to access domestic remedies due to the lack of information provided by state authorities. Given the lack of response from the State, the Commission has no elements to assess the actions that may have been initiated on his behalf.

Consequently, in accordance with Article 25 of the Rules of Procedure, it requested that Venezuela:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life and personal integrity of the beneficiary. In particular, among others, inform whether Leocenis Manuel García Osorio is under State custody and the circumstances of his detention; specify whether the beneficiary was brought before a competent court to review his detention after having been charged with crimes; or, otherwise, clarify the reasons why he has not been released to date; specify whether the beneficiary has undergone a medical evaluation and submit the corresponding documentary support; and guarantee the beneficiary’s contact with his family and trusted attorneys, and provide them with the minimum official information on his legal status;
  2. implement the necessary measures to ensure that Leocenis Manuel García Osorio can carry out his political activities without facing threats, harassment, or acts of violence; and
  3. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged events that led to the adoption of this precautionary measure, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 78/24
PM 1042-24, 1043-24 - Israel Moisés Crespo Sulbarán, J.D.C.C., and Gustavo Adolfo Torres Zambrano , Venezuela

On October 28, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures for the benefit of Israel Moisés Crespo Sulbarán, J.D.C.C. and Gustavo Adolfo Torres Zambrano with respect to Venezuela. The proposed beneficiaries are reported to be at risk following their detention by law enforcement agents on July 30, 2024. To date, the whereabouts of Israel Moisés Crespo Sulbarán and Gustavo Adolfo Torres Zambrano are unknown following their transfer out of the place of detention where they were being held; and the adolescent J.D.C.C. is said to be in inadequate conditions of detention. Consequently, based on Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure, the Commission requests that Venezuela:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life and personal integrity of the proposed beneficiaries. In particular, inform whether Israel Moisés Crespo Sulbarán and Gustavo Adolfo Torres Zambrano are in the custody of the State and the circumstances of their detention, or provide information on the measures aimed at determining their whereabouts or fate. The Commission considers it necessary for the State to specify whether the beneficiaries were brought before a court of competent jurisdiction to review their detention if they had been charged with crimes. Otherwise, specify the reasons why they have not been released to date;
  2. ensure the corresponding measures so that the wife of Israel Moises Crespo can continue to denounce her partner’s situation without being subjected to threats, harassment, intimidation or acts of violence;
  3. implement the necessary measures to ensure that the beneficiaries’ detention conditions are compatible with applicable international standards on the matter, including: i) guarantee that they are not subjected to violence, threats, intimidation, and aggression inside the prison; ii) provide access to adequate and specialized medical care and to the necessary medical care; iii) guarantee regular contact and access to their families and lawyers; and iv) in the case of J.D.C.C., take the corresponding measures in accordance with his best interests; and
  4. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged events that led to the adoption of this precautionary measure, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 77/24
PM 1133-24 - Steadman Fagot Muller, Nicaragua

On October 28, 2024, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) granted precautionary measures in favor of Steadman Fagot Muller, after considering that he is in a serious and urgent situation presenting a risk of irreparable harm to his rights in Nicaragua. The applicant indicated that the beneficiary held a public position from which he opposed the government’s policies on indigenous peoples. It was alleged that, in reprisal for this, the Army arrested the beneficiary on September 14, 2024. Since then, his whereabouts, legal situation, and conditions of detention are unknown. The State did not provide information on the matter. The IACHR assessed the human rights crisis situation in Nicaragua and the lack of knowledge of the beneficiary’s whereabouts, the judicial investigation that led to his capture, and his current situation. Consequently, in terms of Article 25 of the Rules of Procedure, it requests that the State of Nicaragua:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to determine the situation and whereabouts of the beneficiary, in order to protect his rights to life and personal integrity;
  2. inform whether the beneficiary is in the custody of the State, the circumstances and conditions of his detention. In particular, report on the place of his detention, allowing access to his legal representatives and family members, as well as the necessary health care, and ensure that he is brought before judicial authorities to review and monitor any continued detention;
  3. ensure the corresponding measures to guarantee that the beneficiary can continue to carry out his activities in defense of the rights of indigenous peoples without being subjected to threats, harassment, or acts of violence in the exercise of these activities; and
  4. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged facts that gave rise to the adoption of this resolution, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 75/24
PM 1134-24 - Gersom Antonio Zeledón Motta and three other persons, Nicaragua

On October 24, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of Gersom Antonio Zeledón Motta, Eveling Carolina Matus Hernández, Lesbia del Socorro Gutiérrez Poveda, and Carmen María Sáenz Martínez, after considering that they are in a serious and urgent situation presenting a risk of irreparable harm to their rights in Nicaragua. It was alleged that the beneficiaries’ whereabouts were unknown as of their respective detentions between March and August 2024. It is alleged that the arrests were carried out by police officers through raids and/or searches of the respective homes, without indicating the reasons for their arrest. People close to the beneficiaries went to the various prisons to locate them and learn about their situation. The State authorities have not provided official information on the current whereabouts of these individuals, nor on their current status. The Commission also found that the State did not provide any information on the measures adopted to mitigate the risk faced by the beneficiaries, or on the actions taken to determine their whereabouts. In accordance with Article 25 of the Rules of Procedure, the Commission requests that Nicaragua:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to determine the situation and whereabouts of the beneficiaries, in order to protect their rights to life and personal integrity; b. inform whether the beneficiaries are in the custody of the State, the circumstances and conditions of their detention. In particular, report on the place of their detention, allowing access to their legal representatives and family members, as well as the necessary health care, and ensure that they are brought before judicial authorities to review and monitor any continued detention; and c) report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged facts that gave rise to the adoption of this resolution, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring
.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 74/24
PM 1061-24 - Andreina Zerpa Vivas, Yolivares Infante Camacho and Eichler Hernández Ortuño, Venezuela

On October 22, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of Andreina Zerpa Vivas, Yolivares Infante Camacho and Eichler Hernández Ortuño, after considering that their rights to life and personal integrity face a risk of irreparable harm in Venezuela. According to the request, the identified persons have been subject to threats and harassment, following their participation as campaign members of Edmundo González and María Corina Machado in the State of Guárico for the presidential elections of July 2024 in Venezuela. The request refers to various events that allegedly occurred in the context of persecution of the political opposition in Venezuela.

Upon analyzing the submissions of fact and law made by the requesting party, the Commission requested that the State of Venezuela:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life and personal integrity of Andreina Zerpa Vivas, Yolivares Infante Camacho, and Eichler Hernández Ortuño;
  2. ensure the corresponding measures to guarantee that the beneficiaries can continue to carry out their activities of political participation without being subjected to threats, harassment or acts of violence in the exercise of these activities. In particular, the State must ensure that its agents respect the rights and personal integrity of the beneficiaries in accordance with the standards established by international human rights law, as well as in relation to acts of risk attributable to third parties. Likewise, it must provide information on existing criminal investigations against the proposed beneficiaries; exhibit the judicial arrest warrants that exist, if any; and allow them to have security guarantees in the development of the eventual investigations;
  3. consult and agree upon the measures to be adopted with the beneficiaries and their representatives; and
  4. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged facts that gave rise to this precautionary measure, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 72/24
PM 867-23 - Child Y.A.V.G., Colombia

On October 13, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of the child Y.A.V.G, considering that he is in a serious and urgent situation presenting a risk of irreparable harm to his rights in Colombia. According to the request, José Eduardo Vargas Parra, the father, has had no contact with his son, the child Y.A.V.G., since November 15, 2017, relying on judicial determinations on a regime of cohabitation between father and son. This situation has remained, despite administrative, civil, criminal and constitutional actions initiated by the father. This request is related to petition 1976-23.

After requesting information from the State, the Commission took note of the response provided by the Colombian institutional authorities regarding the proceedings and investigations underway. In this regard, the Commission observed that, even though the child has stated that he has not seen his father for the past seven years, the reports attached by the State do not mention any attempt to reconnect him, nor do they provide information suggesting that the absence of ties with him is based on the best interests of the child.

Therefore, in the terms of Article 25 of the Rules of Procedure, , the IACHR requested that Colombia adopt the necessary measures to safeguard, in accordance with the best interests of the child, the rights to identity, family life, and personal integrity of the beneficiary. These measures are to remain in effect until the underlying dispute is resolved, in order to ensure the useful effect of any eventual decision made within the petition and case system. In the same way, it requires that the State evaluate the impact of the alleged lack of relationship between father and son, according to the applicable international standards on cohabitation with both parents.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 71/24
PM 973-24 - Juan Pablo Guanipa Villalobos, Venezuela

On October 7, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of Juan Pablo Guanipa Villalobos, considering that he is in a serious and urgent situation presenting a risk of irreparable harm to his rights in Venezuela. According to the request, he is a member of the Venezuelan opposition and has been subject to intimidation, harassment and aggression at least since 2016. Following the July 2024 presidential elections, he was allegedly subject to motorized persecution, on August 3 and 28, 2024, by SEBIN agents. The harassment allegedly extended to several members of his family, leading to the closure of family businesses, siege of his family home, and cancellation of passports. His brother was also reportedly detained under allegations of arbitrariness. After analyzing the information, the IACHR requested that the State of Venezuela:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life and personal integrity of Juan Pablo Guanipa Villalobos;
  2. ensure the corresponding measures to guarantee that the beneficiary can continue to carry out his activities of political participation without being subjected to threats, harassment or acts of violence in the exercise of these activities. In particular, the State must ensure that its agents respect the rights and personal integrity of the beneficiary in accordance with the standards established by international human rights law, as well as in relation to acts of risk attributable to third parties;
  3. consult and agree upon the measures to be implemented with the beneficiary and his representatives; and
  4. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged events that led to the adoption of this precautionary measure, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 69/24
PM 972-24 - Adolescent J.A.R.L and his father, Colombia

On October 2, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of adolescent J.A.R.L and his father, upon considering that they are at serious and urgent risk of irreparable harm to their rights in Colombia. The request for precautionary measures alleged that the proposed beneficiary J.A.R.L has been missing since August 21, 2024, after being allegedly kidnapped by the armed group called “Jaime Martínez” in Colombia. Following these events, J.A.R.L.’s father began to receive threats and intimidation while carrying out efforts to search for his son. Although complaints were filed, reportedly no search actions were initiated. The Commission considered the alleged facts in light of the context it has been monitoring in Colombia and acknowledged the commitment expressed by the State in this matter. Nevertheless, it expressed concern over the information presented, especially the absence of confirmation on the effective activation of the urgent search mechanism for the adolescent J.A.R.L, and the lack of protective measures for J.A.R.L’s father or other efforts to support the search. Consequently, based on Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure, it requires that Colombia:

  1. adopt the neces-sary measures to determine the situation and whereabouts of the beneficiary, in order to protect his rights to life and personal integrity;
  2. implement the necessary measures to protect J.A.R.L’s father from intimi-dation and other acts of violence while he continues to search for his son;
  3. consult and agree upon the measures to be implemented with the beneficiaries and their representatives; and
  4. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged events that led to the adoption of this precautionary measure, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 68/24
PM 919-24 - Eddie Moisés González Valdivia, Nicaragua

On September 30, 2024, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) granted precautionary measures in favor of Eddie Moisés González Valdivia, upon considering that he is in a serious and urgent situation, given that his rights are at risk of irreparable harm. It was alleged that Eddie Moisés González Valdivia is a retired major of the Nicaraguan Army, university professor, and business consultant in the city of Estelí. He also identifies as a dissident of the ruling party and a critic of the current regime, and is detained in the Jorge Navarro "La Modelo" Penitentiary Center, incommunicado, with no information available about his health and current detention situation. Similarly, the beneficiary is reportedly legally vulnerable due to lack of access to the judicial file and the absence of effective legal defense. The State, for its part, did not provide information that would allow for the determination that the identified risk factors have been adequately mitigated. Pursuant to the provisions of Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure, the Commission requests that Nicaragua:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life, personal integrity, and health of Eddie Moisés González Valdivia;
  2. implement the necessary measures to ensure that the beneficiary’s detention conditions are compatible with applicable international standards on the matter, including:
    1. guarantee regular contact and access to his family members, attorneys, and representatives;
    2. officially inform them of the beneficiary’s legal situation in the framework of the criminal process in which he is allegedly involved;
    3. immediately carry out a comprehensive medical assessment of his health and guarantee access to adequate medical care; and
    4. evaluate the possibility of granting alternative measures to deprivation of liberty, given the impossibility of protecting his rights in light of the current detention conditions;
    5. consult and agree upon the measures to be implemented with the beneficiary and their representatives; and
    6. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged events that led to the adoption of this precautionary measure, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring
.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 67/24
PM 952-24 - Osmary Gabriela Sánchez Chirinos, Venezuela

On September 27, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of Osmary Gabriela Sánchez Chirinos, who is at risk given that she is pregnant, is currently deprived of her Liberty, and is not receiving adequate medical care for her situation. Upon analyzing the request, the Commission took into account not only the Venezuelan context but highlighted that the beneficiary was arrested within the framework of the so-called “Operation Tun Tun,” aimed at arresting individuals who are perceived as opponents of the regime. Furthermore, the Commission highlighted that, prior to being deprived of her liberty, the beneficiary was unaware of the existence of any criminal proceedings or detention orders against her, that a public defender had been assigned to her, and that she had been subjected to threats from her guards, among other situations. The Commission emphasized that the beneficiary’s detention conditions are not adequate, particularly given her pregnancy and the care she requires. Upon analyzing the available information, based on Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure, the IACHR requested that Venezuela:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life, personal integrity, and health of Osmary Gabriela Sánchez Chirinos, with a gender perspective, in accordance with applicable international standards and obligations;
  2. implement the necessary measures to ensure that her detention conditions are compatible with applicable international standards on the matter. In particular, guarantee access to the corresponding medical diagnoses and define her medical treatment;
  3. consult and agree upon the measures to be implemented with the beneficiary and their representatives; and
  4. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged events that led to the adoption of this precautionary measure, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring
.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 66/24
PM 690-24 - G.O.F. and his family unit, Colombia

On September 19, 2024, the IACHR decided to grant precautionary measures in favor of G.O.F. and his family members. The request argued that G.O.F., a patrol officer of the Colombian National Police, was subjected to death threats after he delivered explosives to the authorities that were allegedly to be supplied to the National Liberation Army (ELN) by sub-inspector of the Anti-Narcotics Unit. As a result of his refusal to return the explosive material, G.O.F. and his family received threats and were persecuted, which forced them to move several times. For its part, the State reported that an investigation was opened into the threats and that there are internal protection mechanisms available for public officers and witnesses. The IACHR noted that the threats against G.O.F. and his family persist, and that no material protection measures have been adopted to guarantee their safety. It also considered that the leak of G.O.F.’s whereabouts aggravates his situation of vulnerability and puts his entire family at risk. Consequently, in the terms of Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure, the IACHR decided to grant the precautionary measures and requested that the State of Colombia:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life and integrity of the beneficiaries, including putting in place appropriate protocols to ensure the confidentiality of all information about their status and whereabouts;
  2. consult and agree upon the measures to be implemented with the beneficiaries and their representatives; and
  3. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged events that led to the adoption of this precautionary measure, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 65/24
PM 765-24 - William Stiven Rojas Rincon and his family unit, Colombia

On September 19, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of journalist, community and social leader William Stiven Rojas Rincon, considering that he is in a serious and urgent situation presenting a risk of irreparable harm to his rights in Colombia. According to the request, the beneficiary has been receiving death threats and being followed in a sustained manner. The alleged events are allegedly occurring as a direct consequence of his journalistic and social leadership activities. However, no progress has been made in the investigations. On July 17, 2024, the competent judicial authority ordered an additional security detail and ordered the UNP to conduct a new risk assessment. The request reported failures in the implementation of the granted detail and alleged that the new risk assessment study had not been carried out. For its part, the State informed that the risk assessment study has been underway since July 29, 2024 and that the proposed beneficiary purportedly has one ballistic protection vest, one means of communication, one protection person and transportation support. Finally, he indicated that payment of the August transportation support is pending. The Commission valued the work of the beneficiary, the ongoing threatening situations over time, the lack of progress in the investigation and the fact that a new risk assessment is still pending, despite the judicial determination. Therefore, in accordance with the terms of Article 25 of the Rules of Procedure, it requested that Colombia:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect rights to life and personal integrity of the beneficiaries, in accordance with applicable international standards and obligations;
  2. implement the necessary measures to ensure that William Stiven Rojas Rincon can carry out his work as a journalist and human rights defender without being subjected to threats, intimidation, harassment, or other acts of violence in the course of his duties;
  3. consult and agree upon the measures to be implemented with the beneficiaries; and
  4. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged facts that led to the adoption of this precautionary measure, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 64/24
PM 941-24 - Nelida del Rosario Sánchez Oropeza, Venezuela

On September 6, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of Nelida del Rosario Sánchez Oropeza, considering that she is in a serious and urgent situation presenting a risk of irreparable harm to her rights in Venezuela. According to the request, the beneficiary is the national training coordinator of the non-governmental organization Súmate, in Venezuela, and was detained on August 26, 2024 by agents of the Bolivarian National Intelligence Service (SEBIN). On August 28, 2024, she was transferred to an unknown location. It was added that she was suffering from illnesses that would require special care and that, at the moment, there is no news of her state of health and whether she was receiving adequate medical attention. Family members undertook a search effort, going to the SEBIN headquarters in Helicoide, Caracas, to seek news of the whereabouts of the proposed beneficiary. Despite their efforts, the officials did not provide any information. In addition, an attempt was made to file a complaint of forced disappearance, which was not received by the competent authority. Given the lack of response from the State, the Commission has no elements to evaluate the actions that would have been initiated on her behalf.

Consequently, in accordance with Article 25 of the Regulations, Venezuela was requested to:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life and personal integrity of Nelida del Rosario Sánchez Oropeza. In particular, inform whether the beneficiary is in the custody of the State and her current circumstances, or provide information on the measures aimed at determining her whereabouts or fate. The Commission deems it necessary for the State to specify whether the beneficiary was brought before a court of competent jurisdiction to review her detention if she had been charged with a crime. Otherwise, provide a detailed explanation for the reasons why the beneficiary has not yet been released. In any case, the State is requested to specify whether the beneficiary has undergone a medical evaluation and to provide the corresponding documentation;
  2. implement the necessary measures to ensure that the beneficiary can carry out her human rights defense activities without being subjected to threats, harassment, or acts of violence; and
  3. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged events that led to the adoption of this precautionary measure, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 63/24
PM 931-24 - Biagio Pilieri Gianninoto and Jesús Alfredo Pilieri Vasile, Venezuela

On September 6, 2024, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights adopted Resolution 63/2024, by which it granted precautionary measures in favor of Biagio Pilieri Gianninoto and Jesús Alfredo Pilieri Vasile after considering that they are in a serious and urgent situation presenting a risk of irreparable harm to their rights in Venezuela.

After analyzing the submissions of fact and law furnished by the applicants, the Commission observed that in the post-electoral context of Venezuela, and taking into account the applicable prima facie standard, it is proven that the rights to life and personal integrity of the beneficiaries are at serious risk, especially after their detention on August 28, 2024, by SEBIN and since the official whereabouts of Biagio Pilieri are currently unknown. Consequently, based on Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure, the Commission requests that Venezuela:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life and personal integrity of the beneficiaries. In particular, among others, inform whether Biagio Pilieri Gianninoto is in State custody at the SEBIN headquarters and the circumstances of his detention; specify whether the beneficiary was brought before a competent court to review his detention after having been charged with crimes; or, otherwise, specify the reasons why he has not been released to date; specify whether the beneficiary has undergone a medical evaluation and submit the corresponding documentary support; and guarantee the beneficiary’s contact with his family and trusted attorneys, and provide them with the minimum official information on his legal situation;
  2. implement the necessary measures to ensure that Biagio Pilieri Gianninoto and Jesús Alfredo Pilieri can carry out their activities as members of an opposition party without facing threats, harassment, or acts of violence; and
  3. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged events that led to the adoption of this precautionary measure, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 62/24
PM 937-24 - Eleanger David Navas Vidal , Venezuela

On September 2, 2024, the IACHR adopted precautionary measures in favor of Eleanger David Navas Vidal. It was indicated that the beneficiary is a community manager of the newspaper Oriental. On August 3, 2024, the beneficiary was deprived of his liberty by members of the Bolivarian National Police (PNB). The family members were informed that Eleanger David was transferred to Yare prison on August 26, 2024. However, at that place, they were informed that the beneficiary was not detained. To date, the beneficiary’s whereabouts are unknown.

At the time of analyzing the request, the Commission highlighted, in addition to the current context in Venezuela, that the detention and subsequent lack of information about the beneficiary’s fate would be closely linked to his role as community manager of the Instagram account of a newspaper whose editorial line is not aligned with the current government. The Commission identified that, since August 26, 2024, his whereabouts are unknown. In addition, his relatives have not been able to obtain official information about his current whereabouts despite the search actions carried out. They have no contact with the beneficiary and have not received any information about any action taken by the assigned public defender.

After analyzing the submissions of fact and law furnished by the applicants, the Commission considered that the beneficiary is in a serious and urgent situation, given that to date his whereabouts are unknown. Consequently, based on Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure, the Commission requests that Venezuela:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life and personal integrity of Eleanger David Navas Vidal. In particular, among others, indicate the detention center where the proposed beneficiary is currently held and clarify his legal situation; allow access and contact with his relatives and trusted attorneys; specify the actions the public defender has taken in favor of the proposed beneficiary; detail whether his current situation has been subject to judicial review; report on the detention conditions in which he is held; and evaluate the granting of alternative measures to the deprivation of liberty, considering the exceptional nature of pretrial detention; and
  2. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged events that led to the adoption of this precautionary measure, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 61/24
PM 928-24 - Perkins Rocha Contreras , Venezuela

On September 2, 2024, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights adopted Resolution 61/2024, by which it granted precautionary measures for the benefit of Perkins Rocha Contreras after considering that he is in a serious and urgent situation presenting a risk of irreparable harm to his rights in Venezuela.

The applicants indicated that Perkins Rocha Contreras is the Legal Coordinator of the Vente Venezuela party and representative of the Comando Venezuela before the National Electoral Council. He is a lawyer and personal advisor to María Corina Machado, National Coordinator of the Vente Venezuela party. Perkins Rocha was detained on August 27, 2024, by hooded and armed officers, who, after a strong struggle, allegedly took him away without an arrest warrant. Since then, his official whereabouts are unknown. According to public information, the wife of the proposed beneficiary received a message that Mr. Rocha is at the headquarters of the Bolivarian National Intelligence Service (SEBIN), a place where they had previously denied his presence. The family is aware that the proposed beneficiary is charged with various crimes, such as terrorism and treason. However, neither the family nor his trusted lawyer have been able to see him or confirm his legal situation.

After analyzing the submissions of fact and law furnished by the applicants, the Commission considered that the proposed beneficiary is in a serious and urgent situation, given that to date his whereabouts are unknown. Consequently, based on Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure, the Commission requests that Venezuela:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life and personal integrity of Perkins Rocha Contreras. In particular, among others, inform whether the beneficiary is in State custody at the SEBIN headquarters and the circumstances of his detention; specify whether the beneficiary was brought before a competent court to review his detention after having been charged with crimes; or, otherwise, specify the reasons why he has not been released to date; and guarantee the beneficiary’s contact with his family and trusted attorneys, and provide them with the minimum official information on his legal situation;
  2. implement the necessary measures to ensure that the beneficiary can carry out his activities as a member of an opposition party without facing threats, harassment, or acts of violence;
  3. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged events that led to the adoption of this precautionary measure, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 58/24
PM 907-24 - Ana Carolina Guaita Barreto, Venezuela

On August 27, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of the journalist Ana Carolina Guaita Barreto, upon considering that she is at serious and urgent risk of irreparable harm to her rights in Venezuela. According to the request, the proposed beneficiary was arbitrarily arrested on August 20, 2024 and taken to the headquarters of the Directorate of Citizen Security at the Governor’s Office of La Guaira (Dirección de Seguridad Ciudadana de la Gobernación de la Guaira). On August 22, members of the Bolivarian National Intelligence Service allegedly transported her to an unknown location. The applicants characterized the situation as a “forced disappearance.” It was added that the beneficiary’s parents are in hiding due to political persecution. For this reason, according to the available information, third parties have made search efforts by visiting the Directorate of Citizen Security at the Governor’s Office of La Guaira to inquire about the proposed beneficiary’s whereabouts. However, they were unable to obtain any information. At the judicial level, an attempt was made to file a writ of habeas corpus, which was reportedly not accepted by the relevant judicial authority. Given the lack of response from the State, the Commission has no elements to assess the actions that may have been initiated in her favor.

The IACHR considered the seriousness of the situation that the proposed beneficiary faces, which is exacerbated by the context in which she is immersed, as well as her complete lack of protection in light of the events she may currently be experiencing, given that her whereabouts are unknown. Consequently, under the terms of Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure, it requested that Venezuela:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life and personal integrity of Ana Carolina Guaita Barreto. In particular, inform whether the beneficiary is in the custody of the State and her current circumstances, or provide information on the measures aimed at determining her whereabouts or fate. The Commission considers it necessary for the State to specify whether the beneficiary was brought before a court of competent jurisdiction to review her detention if she had been charged with a crime. Otherwise, provide a detailed explanation for the reasons why the individual has not yet been released;
  2. implement the necessary measures to ensure that the beneficiary can carry out her journalistic activities without facing threats, harassment, or acts of violence; and
  3. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged events that led to the adoption of this precautionary measure, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 57/24
PM 833-24 - Adolescent S.J.C.A., Colombia

On August 24, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of the adolescent S.J.C.A., upon considering that she is at serious and urgent risk of irreparable harm to her rights in Colombia. According to the request, the beneficiary has been missing since April 20, 2024, after allegedly being recruited by the illegal armed group of Segunda Marquetalia. The adolescent was able to communicate with her parents through audio and text messages until August 2024. In these messages, she indicated that she was ill, had injuries on her body, and had suffered unspecified punishments for attempting to escape from the location where she is being held. In addition, the attached medical reports indicate that she has alleged health issues and reportedly requires special health care that is not being provided by the reported recruiters. Although reports have been made to various bodies, there have been no search actions. Given the lack of response from the State, the Commission has no elements to assess the actions that may have been initiated in her favor.

The IACHR considered the seriousness of the passage of time under the alleged conditions, the context in which she is immersed, as well as the deterioration of her health and the potential fatal consequences. Consequently, under the terms of Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure, it requested that Colombia:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to determine the situation and whereabouts of the beneficiary, in order to protect her rights to life, personal integrity, and health, and;
  2. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged events that led to the adoption of this precautionary measure, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 56/24
PM 511-24 - Rodsman Saadik Molina Ortez, Honduras

On August 26, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of Rodsman Saadik Molina Ortez, after considering that he is at serious and urgent risk of irreparable harm to his rights in Honduras. The proposed beneficiary is president of the Union of Workers of the Honduran Civil Aeronautics Agency (Sindicato de Trabajadores de la Agencia Hondureña de Aeronáutica Civil, SITRAAHAC). He is reportedly at risk due to threats and acts of violence by third parties allegedly in response to his union activities. Despite having a security detail in his favor, the request alleged implementation failures which were not adequately addressed by the State. In addition, the request mentioned the persistence of the situations which placed him at risk, which included his family members. For its part, the State confirmed the granted security detail and stated that it is coordinating with the relevant authorities on the status of the investigations.

Upon analyzing the submissions of fact and law, the IACHR considered the role of union leader that the proposed beneficiary fulfills, the ongoing situations that have been placing the proposed beneficiary at risk over time, the lack of investigation into these situations, and the absence of adjustments or new risk assessments to accurately outline the protection measures needed. In light of the current context in Honduras, and under the terms of Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure, the Commission requested that Honduras:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life and personal integrity of the beneficiary and his family unit;
  2. implement the necessary measures to ensure that the beneficiary can exercise his functions as president of the Union of Workers of the Honduran Civil Aeronautics Agency (SITRAAHAC), without being subjected to threats, intimidation, harassment, or acts of violence;
  3. consult and agree upon the measures to be implemented with the beneficiaries and his representatives; and
  4. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged events that led to the adoption of this precautionary measure, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 55/24
PM 899-24 - Freddy Francisco Superlano Salinas, Venezuela

El 26 de agosto de 2024 la CIDH otorgó medidas cautelares a Freddy Francisco Superlano Salinas. Se alegò que Freddy Francisco Superlano Salinas es dirigente político y se desempeña como coordinador nacional del partido Voluntad Popular. El 30 de julio de 2024 en la ciudad de Caracas, el beneficiario fue privado arbitrariamente de su libertad por presuntos agentes del Estado adscritos al Servicio Bolivariano de Inteligencia Nacional (SEBIN). Advirtieron que desde el momento en la que se ejecutó la detención, hasta la actualidad no se conoce el paradero del beneficiario. Tras analizar la información disponible, la CIDH de conformidad con el artículo 25 de su Reglamento, solicitó al Estado de Venezuela que:

  1. adopte las medidas necesarias para proteger los derechos a la vida e integridad personal de Freddy Francisco Superlano Salinas. En particular, informe si la persona beneficiaria se encuentra bajo custodia del Estado y las circunstancias de su detención, o bien, de las medidas tomadas a fin de determinar su paradero o destino. La Comisión considera necesario que el Estado precise si la persona beneficiaria fue presentada a un tribunal competente para revisar su detención de habérsele imputado delitos. De lo contrario, precisar las razones por las que no ha sido puesta en libertad a la fecha;

  2. implemente las medidas necesarias para que la persona beneficiaria pueda desarrollar sus actividades como integrante de un partido de oposición sin ser objeto de amenazas, hostigamientos o actos de violencia; y

  3. informe sobre las acciones adoptadas a fin de investigar los presuntos hechos que dieron lugar a la presente medida cautelar y así evitar su repetición.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 54/24
PM 900-24 - Carmen Leonor García Azuaje, Venezuela

On August 23, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures to Carmen Leonor García Azuaje. It was informed that Carmen Leonor García Azuaje is secretary of the opposition party “Alianza Bravo Pueblo”. On August 17, 2024 the beneficiary was apprehended in the center of the city of Puerto Ayacucho in Amazonas state by officers of the Strategic Intelligence Division of the Bolivarian National Police. From the moment of her arrest, the whereabouts of the beneficiary is unknown. Therefore, it was alleged that the situation of the beneficiary is one of “forced disappearance”.

The Commission, at the time of evaluating the decision, considered the circumstances that preceded the detention of the beneficiary to be of special importance, in addition to the contextual monitoring of the country carried out by the IACHR. Likewise, the Commission expressed its special concern for the fact that since the moment she was detained by agents of the Bolivarian National Police, her whereabouts are unknown. The Commission highlighted that the beneficiary, in addition to being the secretary of the opposition party “Alianza Bravo Pueblo” in the state of Amazonas, has also been the target of threats and harassment due to her participation as an electoral witness in the July 2024 presidential elections in Venezuela. The Commission considered that the beneficiary is in a total lack of protection against the situations she could be facing at present after her whereabouts are unknown. After analyzing the available information, the IACHR, in accordance with Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure, requested that Venezuela:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life and personal integrity of Carmen Leonor García Azuaje. In particular, inform whether the beneficiary is in the custody of the State and the circumstances of her detention, or the measures taken to determine her whereabouts or fate. The Commission considers it necessary for the State to specify whether the beneficiary was brought before a court of competent jurisdiction to review her detention if she has been charged with a crime. If not, specify the reasons why she has not been released to date;
  2. implement the necessary measures so that the beneficiary can carry out her activities as a member of an opposition party without being subjected to threats, harassment or acts of violence; and
  3. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged facts that gave rise to this precautionary measure, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 53/24( EXTENSION AND FOLLOW-UP )
PM 395-18 - Authorities and members of the Gonzaya (Buenavista) and Po Piyuya (Santa Cruz de Piñuña Blanco) reservations of the Siona People (ZioBain), Colombia

The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) adopted on August 21, 2024, the Follow-up and Extension Resolution 53/2024 regarding the situation of the authorities and members of the Gonzaya and Po Piyuya reservations of the Siona Indigenous People in Colombia (PM-395-18).

In the Resolution, the IACHR analyzed the information provided by the parties, positively evaluating the actions implemented by the State and considered that a risk identified in 2018 persists with respect to the reservations of the Siona Indigenous People. The Commission understands that the reported events are part of the actions of the illegal armed groups to consolidate their presence in the reservations and impose themselves on the indigenous authorities. The Commission also analyzed the situation of the human rights defender L.M.E.V., who has been the object of death threats from armed groups operating in the territory of the Indigenous Reservations. The Commission considered that the beneficiary is in a situation posing a serious risk to her rights to life and personal integrity. After analyzing the submissions of fact and law, the Commission considers that the risk has not ceased and, therefore, in accordance with the terms of Article 25 of the Rules of Procedure, the Commission:

  1. Requires the State to strengthen the implementation of necessary measures to effectively protect the life and personal integrity of the groups of beneficiaries identified in Resolution 53/2018, taking into account the assessments made in this Resolution;
  2. Requests the State to extend the precautionary measures in favor of L.M.E.V. In this regard: (i) adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life and personal integrity of the beneficiary; (ii) implement the necessary protection measures so that the beneficiary can continue to carry out her human rights defense work, without being subject to threats, intimidation, harassment, and acts of violence; and (iii) report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged events that led to the adoption of measures in favor of L.M.E.V., so as to prevent such events from reoccurring;
  3. Exhorts the parties to submit specific, detailed, and updated information on the situation of the beneficiaries with the aim of continuing to analyze their situation pursuant to Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure. At the time of providing this information, the Commission requests that they specify the situation of the beneficiaries or groups of beneficiaries, so that the Commission can adequately identify how these precautionary measures are being implemented with respect to each of the three groups. This includes, among other actions, reporting on individual and collective protection measures in place, concerted actions and agreements reached; and
  4. Urges the parties to continue with the consultation and coordination spaces at the domestic level within the framework of the implementation of these precautionary measures.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 52/24
PM 611-24; 726-24 - Three persons deprived of their liberty, Nicaragua

On August 17, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of Frank Kevin Laguna Guevara, Óscar Danilo Parrilla Blandón, and Evelyn Susana Guillén Zepeda, persons deprived of their liberty in Nicaragua, after considering that they are in a serious and urgent situation presenting a risk of irreparable harm to their rights in Nicaragua. It was alleged that the beneficiaries are being held in the National Penitentiary System “Jorge Navarro” and in the Integral Penal Establishment for Women (EPIM), in poor conditions of detention and without receiving the necessary medical attention for their ailments. In the case of Ms. Evelyn Susana Guillén Zepeda, she suffers from a mental illness after being a victim of sexual violence. Likewise, they face acts of violence such as beatings, mistreatment and intimidation by prison officials. They are also legally vulnerable due to the lack of access to judicial files and the absence of an effective legal defense. For its part, the State did not provide information that would make it possible to determine that the risk factors identified had been duly mitigated. In accordance with Article 25 of the Rules of Procedure, the Commission requests that Nicaragua:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life, personal integrity, and health of the beneficiaries. In particular, officially report on their current situation while they are in the custody of the State;
  2. implement the necessary measures to ensure that the beneficiaries’ detention conditions are compatible with applicable international standards on the matter, including:
    1. guarantee that they are not subjected to violence, threats, intimidation, and aggression inside the prison;
    2. guarantee access to adequate and specialized medical care and to the necessary treatments and medicines, and immediately carry out a comprehensive medical assessment of their health; and
    3. evaluate the possibility of granting alternative measures to deprivation of liberty, given the impossibility of protecting their rights in light of the current detention conditions;
    4. consult and agree upon the measures to be implemented with the beneficiaries and their representatives; and
    5. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged events that led to the adoption of this precautionary measure, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 50/24
PM 883-24 - Roland Oswaldo Carreño Gutiérrez, Venezuela

On August 17, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures to Roland Oswaldo Carreño Gutiérrez, journalist, political activist, and national leader of the opposition party Voluntad Popular. On August 2, 2024, in Caracas, he was reportedly deprived of his liberty by agents of the Bolivarian National Intelligence Service (SEBIN). To date, his whereabouts are unknown and it is estimated that he has been “forcibly disappeared.”

When evaluating the decision, the Commission observed, in addition to the contextual monitoring of Venezuela, the follow-up carried out by the Special Rapporteurship for Freedom of Expression of the IACHR on the situation of the beneficiary after his detention in 2020. The Commission highlighted the context of systematic persecution against the opposition in Venezuela and considered the information indicating that he was allegedly detained by State agents to be of particular concern. It also highlighted the impossibility of activating internal institutions to request protection. The Commission considered that the beneficiary faces a situation of extreme vulnerability as his current location and whereabouts are unknown. The Commission expressed its concern given that the beneficiary’s situation could have a chilling effect on other journalists being able to express themselves freely in the current post-electoral context of the country. After analyzing the available information, in accordance with Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure, the IACHR requested that Venezuela:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life and personal integrity of Roland Oswaldo Carreño Gutiérrez. In particular, inform whether the beneficiary is in the custody of the State and his current circumstances, or provide information on the measures aimed at determining his whereabouts or fate, and
  2. report on the actions taken in order to investigate the alleged facts that gave rise to the adoption of this precautionary measure, so as to prevent them from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 48/24
PM 602-24 - Joel Jardines Jardines, Cuba

On August 13, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of Joel Jardines Jardines, who is deprived of liberty in Aguacate, Cuba. It was indicated that he suffers from larynx carcinoma and since 2021 he should have undergone analyses to start a possible chemotherapy treatment. It was alleged that the beneficiary lacks a treatment plan for his ailments and suffered physical repression when he requested medical attention from the authorities. The State did not respond. The IACHR considered the seriousness of the lack of medical attention for a possibly malignant tumor, as well as the deterioration of his health or the eventual fatal consequences, as well as the allegations of repression in response to the beneficiary’s requests for medical attention. In accordance with Article 25 of the Rules of Procedure, the Commission requests that Cuba:

a) adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life and personal integrity of Joel Jardines Jardines;

b) take the necessary measures to ensure his detention conditions comply with applicable international standards. In particular, ensuring that the corresponding medical diagnoses are made, that sufficient and timely medical information is provided; and that his medical treatment is defined, with the prior consent of the proposed beneficiary;

c) consult and agree upon the measures to be adopted with the beneficiary and his representatives; and

d) report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged events that gave rise to this resolution, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 46/24
PM 862-24 - María Andreina Oropeza Camacho, Venezuela

On August 10, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of María Andreina Oropeza Camacho, after considering that she is in a serious and urgent situation presenting a risk of irreparable harm to her rights in Venezuela. The requesting party alleged that María Andreina Oropeza Camacho, state coordinator of the campaign command of presidential candidate Edmundo González, has been in a situation of “forced disappearance” since August 6, 2024, after having suffered an allegedly arbitrary search of her residence by agents of the General Directorate of Military Counterintelligence (DGCIM). It was reported that she managed to record and broadcast live, from her social networks, when the State agents raided her residence. Later, her phone was confiscated. They add that her mother has been looking for her in all the detention centers in Guanare and Acarigua, without receiving news of her whereabouts and state of health. The IACHR took into account that the beneficiary was deprived of her liberty by State agents and her whereabouts are unknown to date, in the context of repression during the post-election protests in the country. In accordance with Article 25 of the Rules of Procedure, it requested that Venezuela:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life and personal integrity of María Andreina Oropeza Camacho. In particular, inform whether the beneficiary is in the custody of the State and her current circumstances, or provide information on the measures aimed at determining her whereabouts or fate, and
  2. report on the actions taken in order to investigate the alleged facts that gave rise to the adoption of this precautionary measure, so as to prevent them from reoccurring
.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 45/24
PM 697-24, 730-24, 736-24 - Three persons deprived of their liberty, Nicaragua

On August 2, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of Douglas Acevedo Castillo, Anner Herrera, and Geovanny Jaret Guido Morales, deprived of liberty in Nicaragua, after considering that they are in a serious and urgent situation presenting a risk of irreparable harm to their rights in Nicaragua. It was alleged that the beneficiaries are being held in “La Modelo” prison, in inadequate conditions of detention and without receiving the necessary medical attention for their ailments. They also face acts of violence such as beatings, mistreatment and intimidation by prison officers. They are also legally vulnerable due to the lack of access to judicial files and the absence of an effective legal defense. For its part, the State did not provide information that would make it possible to determine that the risk factors identified had been duly mitigated. In accordance with Article 25 of the Rules of Procedure, the Commission requests that Nicaragua:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life, personal integrity, and health of the beneficiaries. In particular, officially report on their current situation while they are in the custody of the State;
  2. implement the necessary measures to ensure that the beneficiaries’ detention conditions are compatible with applicable international standards on the matter, including:
    1. guarantee that they are not subjected to violence, threats, intimidation, aggression, and torture inside the prison;
    2. guarantee access to adequate and specialized medical care and to the necessary treatments and medicines, and immediately carry out a comprehensive medical assessment of their health; and
    3. evaluate the possibility of granting alternative measures to deprivation of liberty, given the impossibility of protecting their rights in light of the current detention conditions;
    4. consult and agree upon on the measures to be implemented with the beneficiaries and their representatives; and
    5. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged events that led to the adoption of this precautionary measure, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring, particularly with regard to the allegations of torture presented by the applicants
.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 44/24
PM 638-24 - Gustavo Yaxón Meletz and his family, Guatemala

On August 2, 2024, the IACHR decided to grant precautionary measures in favor of human rights defender Gustavo Yaxón Meletz and his family. The request argued that Yaxón Meletz, leader of the Committee for Peasant Unity (CUC) and representative of the Community Development Council of El Tablón before the municipality of Sololá, was the victim of an armed attack on June 5, 2024, which left him seriously wounded and also caused the death of his father, Marcelo Yaxón Pablo, and the lawyer José Domingo Montejo. The alleged inadequacy of the protection measures in place was highlighted, underlining that the beneficiary was the only witness to the events, which also put his family at risk. The IACHR noted that the current protection detail might not be sufficient to guarantee adequate protection, and emphasized the need to carry out an updated risk study to adjust the protection measures and guarantee the safety of Gustavo Yaxón Meletz and his family. Consequently, pursuant to Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure, the IACHR decided to grant the precautionary measures and requested that the State of Guatemala:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life and integrity of Gustavo Yaxón Meletz and his family unit;
  2. implement the necessary measures so that Gustavo Yaxón Meletz can carry out his activities as a human rights defender without being subjected to threats, intimidation, harassment, or other acts of violence in the exercise of his work;
  3. consult and agree upon the measures to be adopted with the beneficiaries and their representatives; and
  4. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged facts that led to this precautionary measure, so as to prevent them from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 43/24
PM 582-24 - Mirian Aída Reguero Sosa and her family unit, Guatemala

On August 2, 2024, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) granted precautionary measures in favor of Mirian Aída Reguero Sosa, prosecutor of the Public Prosecutor’s Office of Guatemala, and her family, after considering that she is in a serious and urgent situation presenting a risk of irreparable harm to her rights in Guatemala. The requesting party alleged that the beneficiary has been subjected to two armed attacks against her life. In addition to severe bodily injury, the armed attacks resulted in the death of the beneficiary’s then partner, in 2022, and her mother, in 2024. The State indicated that the information on the security detail provided to the beneficiary is classified as confidential; however, it added that this helps to reduce the risk scenarios to which she is exposed. The IACHR considered that the alleged risk has already materialized on two occasions, even with a security detail, which reflects that it was not effective in protecting her. It also noted that the situation of the beneficiary was known by the competent authorities, as well as that no relevant progress was reported in the investigations of the attacks. Consequently, pursuant to Article 25 of the Rules of Procedure, the IACHR requested that the State of Guatemala:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life and personal integrity of the beneficiaries;
  2. ensure the necessary measures to guarantee that Mirian Aída Reguero Sosa can exercise her functions without being subject to threats, intimidation, harassment, or acts of violence;
  3. consult and agree upon the measures to be implemented with the beneficiaries and their representatives; and
  4. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged facts that gave rise to this resolution, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 41/24
PM 529-24 - Fray Pascual Claro Valladares, Cuba

On June 30, 2024, the IACHR decided to grant precautionary measures in favor of Fray Pascual Claro Valladares, who is reportedly deprived of his liberty in Cuba. Claro Valladares, detained since August 24, 2022, for participating in peaceful protests, has been transferred between several prisons and subjected to severe conditions of isolation, interrogation and mistreatment. In April 2024, after being sentenced to ten years for sedition, he attempted suicide and was punished with solitary confinement instead of receiving the necessary psychiatric care. Prison authorities have threatened to withdraw all his benefits if he and his mother continue to denounce the violations suffered. The IACHR highlighted his special vulnerability due to his classification as a “counterrevolutionary” and the lack of response from the Cuban State. Consequently, under the terms of Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure, the IACHR decided to grant the precautionary measures and requested that the State of Cuba:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life, personal integrity, and health of Fray Pascual Claro Valladares;
  2. implement the necessary measures to ensure that his detention conditions are compatible with applicable international standards. In particular, ensure that he is not subject to threats, intimidation, harassment, or violence. Furthermore, that the appropriate medical diagnoses be carried out, that his medical treatment be determined, and that such treatment is effectively provided;
  3. consult and agree upon the measures to be adopted with the beneficiary and his representatives; and
  4. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged facts that gave rise to the adoption of this resolution, so as to prevent them from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 40/24
PM 379-24 - J.M.M.B., Cuba

On June 28, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of human rights defender J.M.M.B., deprived of his liberty and at risk due to acts of violence against him. Upon analyzing the information furnished by the applicant in the context of Cuba, the Commission considered that J.M.M.B. has been subjected to acts of violence and physical aggression, including an attempted rape. This situation, in the Commission’s opinion, reflects the state of lack of protection in which the proposed beneficiary currently finds himself, and the lack of supervision on the part of the prison authorities. In addition, the Commission noted the difficulties that the proposed beneficiary’s family members have in reporting the threatening situations and that this limitation aggravates his situation of vulnerability. The Commission requested that Cuba:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life and personal integrity of J.M.M.B.;
  2. implement the necessary measures so that his detention conditions align with applicable international standards. In particular, ensuring that he is not subject to threats, intimidation, harassment or violence;
  3. consult and agree upon the measures to be adopted with the beneficiary and his representative; and
  4. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged events that led to the adoption of this resolution, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 39/24
PM 553-24 - Nine persons deprived of their liberty, Nicaragua

En 17 de junio de 2024, la CIDH otorgó medidas cautelares a favor de nueve personas privadas de libertad, violadas en sus derechos a la vida, integridad personal y salud, detenidas en condiciones insalubres, sufriendo abusos físicos y psicológicos por parte de agentes penitenciarios, sin acceso a cuidados médicos adecuados, resultando en riesgos significativos y daños irreparables. Por su parte, el Estado, sin embargo, de estar informado, no ha presentado respuesta. La Comisión, tras evaluar las alegaciones, aliado al contexto de represión sistemática en el país y la falta de respuesta del Estado, entiende, a primera vista (prima facie), que están presentes los requisitos de gravedad, urgencia e irreparabilidad.

De acuerdo con el artículo 25 del Reglamento, la Comisión solicita a Nicaragua que:

  1. adopte las medidas necesarias para proteger los derechos a la vida, integridad personal y salud de las personas beneficiarias. En particular, informe de manera oficial sobre su situación actual en tanto se encuentra bajo custodia del Estado;
  2. adopte las medidas necesarias para asegurar que las condiciones de detención de las personas beneficiarias sean compatibles con los estándares internacionales aplicables en la materia, entre ellas:
    1. se garantice que no sean objeto de violencia, amenazas, intimidaciones, y agresiones dentro del centro penitenciario;
    2. se tomen las medidas que resulten pertinentes en atención a los alegatos de tortura presentados en la solicitud;
    3. se garantice acceso a atención médica adecuada y especializada, tratamientos y medicamentos, e inmediatamente, realizar una valoración médica integral sobre su situación de salud;
    4. se brinde acceso inmediato a alimentación y agua adecuada; y
    5. se evalúe la posibilidad de otorgar medidas alternativas a la privación de la libertad dada la imposibilidad de proteger sus derechos a la luz de las actuales condiciones de detención;
    6. concierte las medidas a implementarse con las personas beneficiarias y sus representantes; y
    7. informe sobre las acciones adelantadas a fin de investigar los presuntos hechos que dieron lugar a la presente resolución y así evitar su repetición, particularmente en torno a los alegatos de tortura presentados por los solicitantes
.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 38/24( EXTENSION )
PM 61-23 - Members of the Pataxó Hã-Hã-Hãe Indigenous Peoples, Brazil

On June 3, 2024, the IACHR extended precautionary measures in favor of members of the Pataxó Hã-Hã-Hãe Indigenous People regarding Brazil. According to the request, the beneficiaries inhabit the Caramuru-Paraguaçu Indigenous Land in the south of the state of Bahia and are suffering episodes of violence and threats due to disputes over the definition of their territory, as well as the presence of organized crime groups in them. Consequently, under the terms of Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure, the IACHR decided to demand that Brazil:

  1. adopt the necessary and culturally appropriate measures to protect the life and personal integrity of the members of the Pataxó Hã-Hã-Hãe Indigenous People, including from acts perpetrated by third parties. These measures should allow the leaders of the Pataxó Hã-Hã-Hãe Indigenous People to continue carrying out their work in defense of human rights, as well as guarantee that the beneficiaries can return to their villages without being subjected to threats, intimidation or acts of violence;
  2. consult and agree upon the measures to be implemented with the beneficiaries and their representatives; and
  3. report on the actions taken to investigate the facts that gave rise to this precautionary measure, so as to prevent them from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 37/24
PM 509-24 - Walner Antonio Ruiz Rivera, Nicaragua

On June 3, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of Walner Antonio Ruiz Rivera, after considering that he is in a serious and urgent situation posing a risk of irreparable harm to his rights in Nicaragua. It was alleged that the beneficiary is deprived of his liberty in “La Modelo” prison and despite suffering from a series of health problems, he does not have access to the necessary medical attention or the required medicines. In addition, he is being held in inadequate conditions of detention and is being subjected to acts of violence by prison officers. The Commission also found that the State did not provide any information regarding the measures adopted to mitigate the alleged risk. In accordance with Article 25 of the Rules of Procedure, the Commission requests that Nicaragua:

  1. implement the necessary measures to protect the rights to life, personal integrity, and health of Mr. Walner Antonio Ruiz Rivera. In particular, officially report on his current situation while he is in the custody of the State;
  2. adopt the necessary measures to ensure that the beneficiary’s detention conditions are compatible with the applicable international standards on the matter, including:
    1. guaranteeing that he is not subjected to violence, threats, intimidation, and aggression;
    2. taking the appropriate measures in response to the allegations of torture presented in the request;
    3. guaranteeing access to adequate and specialized medical care, and that a specialized medical assessment of his health situation is carried out immediately;
    4. ensuring access to the necessary treatments and medications to treat his medical issues; and
    5. evaluating the possibility of granting alternative measures to the deprivation of liberty, given the impossibility of protecting his rights in light of the impossibility of protecting his rights in the light of his medical conditions;
    6. consult and agree upon the measures to be implemented with the beneficiary and its representatives; and
    7. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged facts that gave rise to this resolution so as to prevent such events from reoccurring, particularly regarding the allegations of torture raised by the applicants
.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 34/24
PM 376-24 - Sonia Chilgueso Dagua, Diana Montilla Moreno, and their families, Colombia

On May 23, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of Sonia Chilgueso Dagua, an indigenous woman, and Diana Montilla Moreno, a lawyer and human rights defender, and their respective families, who are being intimidated, harassed and threatened by armed groups in Colombia. Despite complaints and requests for protection to the authorities, adequate protection measures have not been implemented and there has been no progress in the investigations. The Commission concluded that the beneficiary families are exposed to threats, as well as to being declared military targets, being followed by armed groups, to forced displacement and kidnapping attempts, as in the case of Sonia’s daughter, whose whereabouts are unknown, with allegations that she may have been killed in a confrontation between armed groups. The State’s actions were not sufficient to mitigate the risks, reinforcing the need for the precautionary measures requested. The Commission considered that the matter meets prima facie the requirements of seriousness, urgency and irreparable harm.

In accordance with Article 25 of the Rules of Procedure, the Commission requires that Colombia:

  1. adopt the necessary and culturally appropriate measures to protect the rights to life and personal integrity of the beneficiaries, in accordance with applicable international standards and obligations. In particular, to determine the situation of V.C.D., daughter of Sonia Chilgueso Dagua, whose whereabouts or fate is unknown;
  2. implement the measures to be adopted with the beneficiaries and/or their representatives; and
  3. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged events that led to this precautionary measure, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 33/24
PM 1036-23 - Víctor Miguel Ángel Moreno Campaña, Colombia

On May 20, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of Víctor Miguel Ángel Moreno, community leader and legal representative of the Community Council of Black Communities of Pueblo Rico. According to the request, Mr. Moreno is at risk due to death threats and intimidation attributed to armed groups operating in the area. When analyzing the request, the Commission took into account the alleged facts in light of the context it has been monitoring in Colombia and assessed the protection measures that have been implemented over time. However, given the nature of the threats, the absence of information on progress in the investigative processes, as well as the need to reinforce the protection measures, it was considered that the risk has not been adequately mitigated.

Pursuant to Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure, the IACHR requested that the State of Colombia:

  1. adopt, with an ethnic differential approach, the necessary measures to protect the rights to life and integrity of the beneficiary;
  2. implement the necessary measures so that the beneficiary can carry out his human rights defense activities without being subjected to threats, harassment or other acts of violence in the exercise of his work;
  3. consult and agree upon the measures to be adopted with the beneficiary and his representatives; and
  4. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged facts that gave rise to this precautionary measure, so as to prevent them from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 32/24
PM 140-24 - Aldemar Solano Cuellar and his son, Colombia

On May 16, 2024, the IACHR decided to grant precautionary measures in favor of journalist Aldemar Solano Cuellar and his son, Aldemar Felipe Solano Obando. The request argued that Solano Cuellar, director of the digital news program “Conexión”, has received death threats from the illegal armed group “Clan del Golfo”, which include details about his residence and family, and extortion demands. The threats have also been directed at his son, who has received similar intimidating calls. Despite complaints and requests for protection, no concrete measures have been implemented to safeguard their safety. The IACHR noted that the threats persist and that Solano Cuellar, after moving for safety, had to return to Villavicencio. The lack of protection has led him to confine himself to his home, affecting his journalistic work. Consequently, pursuant to Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure, the IACHR decided to grant the precautionary measures and requested that the State of Colombia:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life and integrity of the beneficiaries;
  2. implement the necessary measures so that Aldemar Solano Cuellar can carry out his activities as a journalist without being subjected to threats, harassment, or other acts of violence in the exercise of his work;
  3. consult and agree upon the measures to be adopted with the beneficiaries and their representatives; and
  4. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged facts that led to this precautionary measure, so as to prevent them from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 31/24
PM 288-24 - Joel Antonio García Hernández, Venezuela

On May 13, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of Joel Antonio García Hernández, lawyer and human rights defender, who has been suffering threats and aggression related to his work in defense of people considered “political prisoners” in Venezuela. Despite having filed complaints and requests for protection to the internal authorities, no protection measures have been implemented by State bodies to prevent further attacks, and no progress has been made in the investigations. For its part, the State, although informed, has not submitted a response. The Commission, after evaluating the allegations, as well as the context of hostility in the country against legal defenders and the lack of response from the State, understands, prima facie, that the requirements of seriousness, urgency, and irreparable harm are present.

In accordance with Article 25 of the Rules of Procedure, the Commission requests that Venezuela:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life and personal integrity of Joel Antonio García Hernández, in accordance with the applicable international standards and obligations, including acts of risk attributable to third parties;
  2. implement the necessary measures so that the beneficiary can carry out his work as a defense lawyer without being subjected to acts of intimidation, threats, or other acts of violence in the exercise thereof;
  3. consult and agree upon the measures to be adopted with the beneficiary and his representatives; and
  4. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged facts that led to the adoption of this precautionary measure, so as to prevent them from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 30/24
PM 442-24 - D.M.P., Cuba

On May 12, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures to D.M.P., political opponent, who has been subjected to beatings, threats and mistreatment, after being deprived of his liberty. It was indicated that he does not receive adequate medical attention for his deteriorating health condition.

The Commission, at the time of evaluating the decision, observed the current conditions of detention of D.M.P., and that the risk factors could be attributed to State agents. For this reason, D.M.P.’s situation of lack of protection is accentuated, not only by the fact that he is classified as a political opponent, but also by the actions taken by the agents responsible for his security to put him at risk. The Commission considered the allegations of collusion between the proposed beneficiary's aggressors and prison officials, in addition to the lack of adequate medical care, to be particularly serious. In addition, the IACHR recognized that the conditions of detention are likely to continue and worsen over time. At the same time, there is no information from the State that would be sufficient to assess whether the alleged situation has been duly mitigated or has disappeared. After analyzing the available information, the IACHR, in accordance with Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure, requested that Cuba

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life, personal integrity, and health of D.M.P.;
  2. ensure that the beneficiary’s detention conditions are compatible with the applicable international standards on the matter;
  3. consult and agree upon the measures to be adopted with the beneficiary and his representatives; and
  4. report on the actions undertaken to investigate the alleged events that led to this precautionary measure, so as to prevent them from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 29/24( EXTENSION )
PM 96-15 - Marienys Pavó Oñate, Cuba

On May 11, 2024, the IACHR extended precautionary measures in favor of Marienys Pavó Oñate regarding Cuba. According to the request, Ms. Pavó Oñate is the wife of Julio Alfredo Ferrer Tamayo, member of the Legal Information Center “Cubalex” and beneficiary of these precautionary measures. The representation alleged that she is being subjected to harassment by State agents since Ferrer Tamayo is outside the country, this is so in retaliation for the work that her husband carries out internationally in the field of human rights and with the objective of preventing him from returning to Cuba. Consequently, under the terms of Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure, the IACHR decided to request that Cuba:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to guarantee the life and personal integrity of Marienys Pavó Oñate;
  2. consult and agree upon the measures to be adopted with the beneficiary and the representation she designates; and
  3. report on the actions implemented to investigate the alleged facts that gave rise to these precautionary measures, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring
.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 28/24
PM 50-24 - Members of the Tapeba Indigenous People of Caucaia, Brazil

On May 9, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of Members of the Tapeba Indigenous People of Caucaia regarding Brazil. According to the request, the beneficiaries are suffering episodes of violence and threats by organized crime and the police, as well as expulsions from their villages in the context of completion of the demarcation of their lands and protection of their territory. Therefore, in terms of Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure, the IACHR decided to require that Brazil:

  1. adopt the necessary and culturally appropriate measures to protect the life and personal integrity of the members of the Tapeba Indigenous People of Caucaia, including against acts perpetrated by third parties. These measures must allow the leaders of the Tapeba Indigenous People to continue carrying out their work in defense of human rights, as well as guarantee that the beneficiaries can return to their villages without being subjected to threats, persecution, or acts of violence;
  2. coordinate the measures to be implemented with the beneficiaries and their representatives; and
  3. report on the actions taken to investigate the events that led to this precautionary measure, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring
.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 26/24( EXTENSION AND FOLLOW-UP )
PM 438-15 - Members of the Venezuelan Program of Education-Action on Human Rights (PROVEA) , Venezuela

On April 29, 2024, the IACHR decided to follow up and extend precautionary measures in favor of members of the Venezuelan Program of Education-Action on Human Rights in Venezuela. According to the request, the members of PROVEA are at risk in the context of their work as human rights defenders in the current situation of Venezuela, considering the visibility of the institution and its coordinators, the frequent stigmatizing remarks made by high-ranking State authorities in the media, and the surveillance and monitoring by State agents. Consequently, under the terms of Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure, the IACHR decided to require that Venezuela:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to guarantee the life and personal integrity of the persons identified as members of the PROVEA team;
  2. adopt the necessary measures so that the beneficiaries can carry out their activities as human rights defenders without being subjected to acts of violence, threats, and harassment;
  3. consult and agree upon the measures to be adopted with the beneficiaries and their representatives; and
  4. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged facts that led to these precautionary measures, so as to prevent them from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 24/24
PM 352-23 - Aniette González García, Cuba

On April 26, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures to Aniette Gonzalez Garcia, who is deprived of her liberty and at risk due to the lack of adequate medical attention for her health problems in the conditions of detention in which she is being held. At the time of assessing the decision, the IACHR noted the conditions of detention and the lack of specialized medical care, which is aggravated by the insufficient food and supplies according to her current health condition. It also observed that she is being subjected to differential treatment by security agents. After analyzing the available information, the IACHR, in accordance with Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure, requested that Cuba

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life, personal integrity and health of Aniette González García, with a gender perspective, in accordance with applicable international standards and obligations;
  2. implement the necessary measures to bring her conditions of detention into line with applicable international standards. In particular, ensuring that the corresponding medical diagnoses are made and that her medical treatment is defined;
  3. consult and agree upon the measures to be adopted with the beneficiary and her representatives; and
  4. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged facts that gave rise to the adoption of this resolution, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring
.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 23/24
PM 384-24 - Walner Omier Blandón Ochoa and ten other persons of the “Puerta de la Montaña” ministry, Nicaragua

On April 21, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of Walner Omier Blandón Ochoa and ten other persons from the “Puerta de la Montaña” ministry, who are members of the evangelical church “Puerta de la Montaña,” after considering that they are in a serious and urgent situation presenting a risk of irreparable harm to their rights in Nicaragua. The request for precautionary measures alleged that the beneficiaries are deprived of their liberty in “La Modelo” prison and in the Women’s Comprehensive Correctional Facility and despite suffering from a series of health problems, they do not have access to the necessary medical attention or to the required medicines. In the case of Ms. Marisela de Fátima Mejía Ruiz, she is not receiving post-natal health care and adequate food, after having given birth prior to her detention. In addition, the proposed beneficiaries are said to be in inadequate conditions of detention. The Commission also found that the State did not provide any information regarding the measures adopted to mitigate the alleged risk. In accordance with Article 25 of the Rules of Procedure, the Commission requests that Nicaragua:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life, personal integrity, and health of the beneficiaries. In particular, officially report on their current situation while in State custody;
  2. adopt the necessary measures to ensure that the beneficiaries’ detention conditions are compatible with the applicable international standards on the matter, among them:
    1. guarantee access to adequate and specialized medical attention, and immediately carry out a specialized medical assessment on their health;
    2. ensure access to the necessary treatments and medications to treat their health issues, with the corresponding gender perspective;
    3. guarantee regular contact and access to their families and lawyers; and
    4. evaluate the possibility of granting alternative measures to the deprivation of liberty given the impossibility of protecting their rights in light of the current detention conditions.
    5. evaluate the possibility of granting alternative measures to the deprivation of liberty given the impossibility of protecting her rights in light of the current detention conditions;
    6. consult and agree upon the measures to be adopted with the beneficiaries and their representatives; and
    7. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged facts that gave rise to the adoption of this resolution, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring
.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 21/24
PM 280-24 - Julio César Góngora Millo, Cuba

On April 10, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of Julio César Góngora Millo. It was indicated that Mr. Millo is a human rights activist and has been identified as a “counterrevolutionary” or “dissident” by the State. As a result, he is reportedly suffering threats, intimidation, harassment and surveillance attributed to State agents. In addition to the above, it has been alleged that the beneficiary is being denied medical attention by the State as part of the retaliatory actions against him. After evaluating the available information, the Commission requests that the State of Cuba:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life and personal integrity of the beneficiary;
  2. adopt the necessary protective measures so that the beneficiary can continue to carry out his work defending human rights, without being subject to threats, intimidation, harassment, and acts of violence. The foregoing implies, among other measures, that the State provide the corresponding medical care so that he can perform his duties; and
  3. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged events that led to the adoption of this resolution, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 19/24
PM 73-24 - Thirteen members of the La Plata Bahía Málaga Community, Colombia

On April 8, 2024, the IACHR decided to grant precautionary measures in favor of thirteen territorial authorities, social leaders and defenders of ethnic-territorial rights of the Community Council of the black communities of La Plata Bahía Málaga, located in Buenaventura, Valle del Cauca. According to the request, the Community Council has resisted claims of territorial control by illegal armed actors and has been suffering armed incursions by these illegal groups since January 2024. The IACHR highlighted the imminence of the risk, underlining the continuity of the threatening events. Consequently, under the terms of Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure, the IACHR decided to grant the precautionary measures and requested that the State of Colombia:

  1. adopt the necessary and culturally appropriate measures to safeguard the life and personal integrity of the beneficiaries. Among other things, it is requested to take the relevant measures to guarantee that they can safely return to their community;
  2. adopt the necessary protection measures so that the beneficiaries can continue carrying out their activities in defense of human rights without being subjected to threats, intimidation, harassment or acts of violence;
  3. consult and agree upon the measures to be adopted with the beneficiaries and/or their representatives; and
  4. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged facts that gave rise to these precautionary measures, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring
.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 13/24
PM 1109-23 - Selected families of the native Kichwa community Santa Rosillo de Yanayacu, Peru

On March 25, 2024, the IACHR decided to grant precautionary measures in favor of certain families of the native Kichwa community Santa Rosillo de Yanayacu, located in the district of Huimbayoc, Province and Region of San Martin. According to the request, the leader of the community was murdered in November 2023 and the beneficiaries are at risk due to their work in defense of their collective rights. The IACHR highlighted the imminence of the risk, underlining the recent materialization of the murder of the community leader and the continuity of the threatening events. Consequently, under the terms of Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure, the IACHR decided to grant the precautionary measure and requested that the State of Peru:

  1. adopt the necessary and culturally appropriate measures to safeguard the life and personal integrity of the beneficiaries. Among other things, it is requested to adopt the essential measures to ensure that the beneficiaries who are displaced in the city of Tarapoto can return safely to their community;
  2. consult and agree upon the measures to be implemented with the beneficiaries and/or their representatives; and
  3. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged events that gave rise to these precautionary measures, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 12/24
PM 51-24 - Cindy Vanessa Arenas Fernández and her family, Colombia

On March 22, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of Cindy Vanessa Arenas Fernández and her family. Cindy Vanessa, an indigenous woman, was the victim of an attempted feminicide and is reportedly being threatened and persecuted, along with her family, by the identified aggressor and individuals from his circle. Meanwhile, the State indicated that it had determined the application of protection measures, without specifying which ones and the beginning of their implementation. The Commission, after evaluating the various actions of the State, deemed them insufficient to prevent the threatening events from continuing. Furthermore, Cindy Vanessa continued to be subjected to death threats, surveillance, and persecution. The mentioned events also extended to members of her family.

Pursuant to Article 25 of the Rules of Procedure, the Commission requests that Colombia:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life and personal integrity of Cindy Vanessa Arenas Fernández, Yu'usa Katleen Timaná Arenas, C.L.T.A., and H.S.S.T., with an intersectional approach that considers gender, ethnicity/race, and age, in accordance with the applicable international standards and obligations;
  2. consult and agree upon the measures to be implemented with the beneficiaries and their representatives; and
  3. report on the actions taken in order to investigate the alleged facts that gave rise to the granting of these precautionary measures, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 11/24
PM 674-21 - J. Santos Rosales Contreras and twelve other members of the Nahua indigenous community of Ayotitlán , Mexico

On March 8, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of J. de Jesus Santos Rosales and twelve other members of the Nahua indigenous community of Ayotitlán, who are said to actively participate in actions against mining exploitation in their territory. For this reason, the beneficiaries are reportedly facing continuous threats, intimidation, surveillance, monitoring and other acts of violence by organized crime groups, among other actors. For its part, the State indicated that it is in the best disposition to attend the necessary working meetings to reach satisfactory agreements for the indigenous community of Ayotitlán. In addition, the State indicated that it is willing to establish a coordinated work plan between federal and state authorities to address the problem, especially in light of the allegations of the presence of organized crime groups. The State also reported on the incorporation of some of the beneficiaries into the Mechanism for the Protection of Human Rights Defenders and Journalists and the protection measures available to them. Although the Commission valued positively the various actions of the State to address the problem and provide security to the beneficiaries and other members of the Nahua community of Ayotitlán, it also considered that the implementation of the protection measures has not prevented the continuation of threatening events, following the murder of one of the leaders of the community in November 2023. In addition, the beneficiaries have continued to be subject to death threats, threats of disappearance, surveillance at their homes, extortion calls, among others. The aforementioned events have also extended to members of their families.

In accordance with Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure, the Commission requests that Mexico:

  1. adopt the necessary and culturally appropriate measures to guarantee the life and personal integrity of the duly identified beneficiaries;
  2. consult and agree upon the measures to be implemented with the beneficiaries and their representatives; and
  3. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged events that led to the adoption of this resolution, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 10/24
PM 274-24  - Carlos Alberto Bojorge Martínez, Nicaragua

On March 6, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of Carlos Alberto Bojorge Martínez, after considering that he is in a serious and urgent situation presenting a risk of irreparable harm to his rights in Nicaragua. The request for precautionary measures alleged that Mr. Carlos Alberto Bojorge Martínez, who is a university student and poet, has been missing since January 1, 2024, after being arrested by police officers. It is alleged that on the day of his arrest, he attended a mass at the Metropolitan Cathedral in Managua, wearing a shirt of the Virgin Mary, a small Nicaraguan flag and a picture of Monsignor Arnulfo Romero in reference to the state persecution against the Catholic Church in the country. In the evening hours, he was detained by police officers who took him to an unknown destination, presumably without an arrest warrant and without the reasons for his detention being known. The Commission also found that the State did not provide any information on the measures adopted to mitigate the beneficiary’s risk situation, or on the actions taken to determine the beneficiary’s whereabouts or fate. In accordance with Article 25 of the Rules of Procedure, the Commission requests that Nicaragua:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to determine the situation and whereabouts of Mr. Carlos Alberto Bojorge Martinez, in order to protect his rights to life and personal integrity;
  2. report on the conditions of detention in which he is currently being held. In particular, the Commission also requests that Nicaragua report on the place of his detention, allowing access to his legal representatives and family members, as well as the necessary health care; and
  3. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged facts that gave rise to the adoption of this resolution, so as to prevent them from reoccurring
.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 7/24
PM 95-24 - Eddy Antonio Castillo Muñoz, Nelly Griselda López García, and Juan Carlos Baquedano, Nicaragua

On March 1, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of Eddy Antonio Castillo Muñoz, Nelly Griselda López García, and Juan Carlos Baquedano, who are identified or perceived as political opponents of the current Nicaraguan government, after considering that they are in a serious and urgent situation presenting a risk of irreparable harm to their rights in Nicaragua. The request for precautionary measures alleged that the beneficiaries are deprived of their liberty in different prisons and despite suffering from a series of health problems, they do not have access to the necessary medical attention or medicines. In addition, they are reportedly being held in inadequate conditions of detention and are being subjected to aggression by prison officials. The Commission also found that the State did not provide any information regarding the measures adopted to mitigate the risk faced by the beneficiaries. In accordance with Article 25 of the Rules of Procedure, the Commission requests Nicaragua to:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life, personal integrity, and health of Eddy Antonio Castillo Muñoz, Nelly Griselda López García, and Juan Carlos Baquedano;
  2. adopt the necessary measures to ensure that the beneficiaries’ detention conditions are compatible with the applicable international standards on the matter, including:
    1. guarantee that they are not subjected to threats, intimidation, harassment, or aggression inside the prison;
    2. guarantee access to adequate and specialized medical care, and immediately carry out a specialized medical evaluation of their health;
    3. provide the necessary treatments and medications to treat their health issues;
    4. guarantee regular contact and access to their family and legal representatives, and
    5. evaluate the possibility of granting alternative measures to imprisonment given the impossibility of protecting their rights in light of the current detention conditions;
    6. consult and agree upon the measures to be adopted with the beneficiaries and their representatives; and
    7. report on the actions taken in order to investigate the alleged events that led to the adoption of this resolution, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring
.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 6/24
PM 1028-23 - Brenda Evers Andrew, United States

On February 26, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of Brenda Evers Andrew. The request indicates that Ms. Andrew is at risk given the imminent execution of the death penalty. The applicants also submitted a petition alleging violation of several articles of the American Declaration of the Rights and Duties of Man: due process, right to equality before law, right to a fair trial and adequate defense. In particular, the applicants alleged that her trial was loaded with gender-based stereotypes and a discriminatory narrative. For its part, the State reported that it forwarded the request for precautionary measures to the Attorney General of the state of Oklahoma and reaffirmed its position that the Commission lacks authority to require States to take precautionary measures.

Upon analyzing the submissions of fact and law offered, the Commission considers that the information presented shows prima facie that there is a serious and urgent risk of irreparable harm to Ms. Andrew’s rights to life and personal integrity, in accordance with Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure. Furthermore, should Ms. Andrew be executed before the Commission has the opportunity to examine the merits of her petition, any eventual decision would be irrelevant and would cause irreparable harm. Accordingly, the Commission requests that the United States of America:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the life and personal integrity of Ms. Brenda Evers Andrew; and
  2. refrain from carrying out the death penalty on Ms. Brenda Evers Andrew until the IACHR has had the opportunity to reach a decision on her petition.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 3/24
PM 999-23 - Juan Carlos Hollman, Argentina

On January 12, 2024, the IACHR decided to grant precautionary measures in favor of Juan Carlos Hollman, who suffers from colon cancer and does not receive timely and adequate medical attention while in detention in Argentina. According to the applicant, Mr. Hollman has not been receiving cancer treatment for more than 23 months and has a prescription for a pending surgery. Although there are judicial decisions determining the provision of the prescribed medical care, he indicated that there are delays in the granting of medical appointments and appointments for examinations, as well as missed appointments due to lack of transportation. Considering the position of special guarantor of the State in relation to the persons under its custody and that the passage of time without receiving prescribed medical treatment may lead to a worsening of their health situation, and eventually, the death of the patient, the IACHR decided to grant precautionary measures under the terms of Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure. Therefore, it requested that Argentina:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life, personal integrity, and health of Mr. Juan Carlos Hollman. In particular, provide the prescribed medical treatment in a timely and appropriate manner;
  2. consult and agree upon the measures to be adopted with the beneficiary and his representative; and
  3. report on the actions taken in order to investigate the alleged events that led to the adoption of this precautionary measure, so as to prevent them from reoccurring
.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 2/24
PM 4-24 - Leyla Susana Lemus Arriaga, Guatemala

On January 13, 2024, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) decided to grant precautionary measures in favor of the sitting Justice of the Constitutional Court, Leyla Susana Lemus Arriaga, after considering that she is in a serious and urgent situation presenting a risk of irreparable harm to her rights in Guatemala. The request for precautionary measures alleged that on December 11, 2023, the National Civil Police (PNC) patrol car located in front of the beneficiary’s home was set on fire by third parties and that this incident was related to her work as a Justice. The Commission considered that the events of December 11, 2023, occurred when PNC agents were not providing protection to the proposed beneficiary, due to her reassignment by orders of the institution itself and despite the protection detail determined by the State itself. Similarly, the Commission considered that the change in the said security detail was carried out in an uncoordinated manner with the proposed beneficiary and that the State did not designate replacement agents to continue with its proper implementation. Consequently, in accordance with the provisions of Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure, the Commission requested that the State of Guatemala:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to protect the rights to life and personal integrity of Leyla Susana Lemus Arriaga;
  2. adopt the necessary measures to ensure that the beneficiary can carry out her duties as a justice in safe conditions;
  3. consult and agree upon the measures to be adopted with the beneficiary and her representatives; and
  4. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged facts that led to the adoption of this precautionary measure, so as to prevent them from reoccurring
.

read Resolution

Resolution No. 1/24
PM 1088-23 - Irma Elizabeth Palencia Orellana, Guatemala

On January 13, 2024, the IACHR granted precautionary measures in favor of Irma Elizabeth Palencia Orellana after considering that she is in a serious and urgent situation presenting a risk of irreparable harm to her rights in Guatemala. According to the request, Ms. Palencia Orellana, in her capacity as a sitting justice of the Supreme Electoral Tribunal of Guatemala (TSE), is being followed, monitored, threatened, and subjected to other events placing her at risk in the exercise of her position, given the current context of the country. Therefore, based on Article 25 of its Rules of Procedure, the Commission requests that the State of Guatemala:

  1. adopt the necessary measures to guarantee the rights to life and personal integrity of Irma Elizabeth Palencia Orellana;
  2. take the necessary measures to ensure that Irma Elizabeth Palencia Orellana can continue to perform her duties as a sitting justice of the Supreme Electoral Tribunal of Guatemala without being subjected to threats, intimidation, harassment, or acts of violence;
  3. consult and agree upon the measures to be implemented with the beneficiary and her representatives; and
  4. report on the actions taken to investigate the alleged events that led to the adoption of this resolution, so as to prevent such events from reoccurring
.

read Resolution