Decision on sanctions against Venezuelan officials

Further information:

+ Foreign Affairs Council, 22 January 2018

The assessment showed the involvement of these individuals in the non-respect of democratic principles or the rule of law as well as in the violation of human rights. The measures include a travel ban and an asset freeze.

Background information:

The decision was adopted as the political, social and economic situation in Venezuela continued to deteriorate, while negotiations between the government and the opposition had not yet delivered concrete results. It was seen as an expression of the concern by the Council with the state of affairs in Venezuela.

It followed the adopted of a set of restrictive measures in November 2017. Just like then, the Council highlighted that sanctions could be reversed depending on the evolution of the situation in the country, in particular the holding of credible and meaningful negotiations, the respect for democratic institutions, the adoption of a full electoral calendar and the liberation of all political prisoners.

+ Adoption of conclusions and targeted sanctions against Venezuela, November 2017

The Council of the European Union decided on 22 January 2018 to put 7 individuals holding official positions in Venezuela under restrictive measures, with immediate effect.

• Primary Source

Reuters, 17.01.18: EU likely to hit Venezuelan officials with sanctions: diplomats https://www.reuters.com/article/idUSKBN1F61FA

CNN, 22.01.18: EU heaps sanctions on Venezuela as isolation grows http://money.cnn.com/2018/01/22/news/economy/eu-venezuela-sanctions/index.html

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