EU cannot recognise results of upcoming elections in Venezuela

“An early Presidential election has been called in Venezuela but the electoral process does not meet international standards. We cannot recognise this process nor the results of such an election. It will only worsen the political, humanitarian and human rights situation that we are witnessing in Venezuela”, said Esteban González Pons MEP, Vice-Chairman of the EPP Group, commenting on the situation in the country and on the Resolution adopted today by MEPs in the European Parliament’s plenary.

The Resolution strongly rejects the decision of an illegitimate National Constituent Assembly to organise the Presidential election on 20 May 2018 and calls for its immediate suspension until the necessary conditions for credible, transparent and inclusive elections are met. It also calls for an immediate organisation of the election, fulfilling all international standards. The government which results from the election must urgently address the current economic and social crisis and work towards national reconciliation.

“The election must be fair and free without exclusion and without ploys, without disqualifications or political prisoners, and accompanied by the international community. We share the ideas of those who are endangering their lives fighting for democracy and dignity in Venezuela”, concluded González Pons.