Nicolás Maduro on United Nations

Nicolás Maduro has consistently used United Nations forums to assert Venezuela's sovereignty and criticize what he describes as foreign interference in the nation's internal affairs. He frequently invokes the UN Charter to defend his government against external pressures, especially from countries that have questioned the legitimacy of his administration or imposed sanctions. His government often uses bodies like the General Assembly and the Human Rights Council to present its counter-narrative regarding the political and humanitarian situation in Venezuela, portraying external actions as violations of international law and national self-determination. This position reflects a strategic use of the global stage to rally diplomatic support and delegitimize opposing international coalitions.

This engagement has historically been characterized by a dual posture: demanding respect for international norms while simultaneously facing accusations of undermining UN mechanisms, particularly those related to human rights monitoring. His government has periodically challenged the credentials or findings of various UN bodies and special rapporteurs. Conversely, Maduro often expresses support for the broader principles of multilateralism and the international order the organization represents, provided it serves as a bulwark against unilateral foreign policy actions by powerful nations. The focus remains on leveraging the UN's platform for political defense and international validation.