Javier Tarazona, Prominent Venezuelan Rights Activist, Released from Prison

Mon Feb 02 2026 06:56:01 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a move reflecting increased governmental changes, Javier Tarazona, a noted human rights activist in Venezuela, has been released from prison amidst growing U.S. pressures for reform.

Javier Tarazona, the head of human rights NGO Fundaredes, has been freed from prison after being detained since 2021. His release marks a significant moment in the ongoing discussion about political prisoners in Venezuela, highlighting governmental shifts under pressure from international actors.

Prominent Venezuelan rights activist Javier Tarazona has been freed, in the latest prisoner release announced by the government amid US pressure for reforms.

Tarazona, the head of human rights NGO Fundaredes, was arrested in 2021 and detained in the notorious El Helicoide prison in the capital Caracas. His release was announced on Sunday by Fundaredes.

Foro Penal, another Venezuelan rights group, stated that it had verified the liberation of more than 300 political prisoners since January 8.

On Friday, acting President Delcy Rodríguez stated the government would introduce an amnesty law expected to benefit hundreds of political prisoners. Under the proposed bill, El Helicoide is also set to be closed.

The announcement follows a dramatic capture of President Nicolás Maduro by US forces on January 3, which triggered calls for political and economic reforms from the regime.

Fundaredes emphasized that Tarazona had been jailed for defending human rights, denouncing abuses, and speaking out. While his release is a significant step, the organization noted it does not erase the injustice he endured, which reflects a continuing pattern of criminalization and persecution for human rights defenders.

Tarazona had previously alleged that government officials were linked with Colombian guerrillas across a lengthy border, which led to accusations of treason, terrorism, and incitement to hatred against him.

Maduro's recent capture has spurred families of various opposition and human rights figures in detention to intensify their campaigns for releases.

Although the Venezuelan government continues to deny the existence of political prisoners, family members and rights advocates are demanding that charges against detainees be dismissed. Many of those recently freed have not had their charges lifted, leaving them in a precarious legal position and preventing them from speaking publicly.

The amnesty bill announced by Rodríguez is anticipated to be approved by the National Assembly soon, serving the aim of healing the divisions brought by political confrontation and violence.