Contribution of the Inter-American Court of Human Rights and the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights to the Realization of Political Rights

Abstract

This study analyzes the actions of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights and the Inter-American Court of Human Rights in the protection and promotion of political rights in Venezuela over the past two decades. Using a hermeneutic-legal approach, reports and rulings are examined to identify progress, challenges, and limitations in the implementation of international standards within the Venezuelan context. The research highlights the contribution of these bodies to the strengthening of democracy and the rule of law, despite state resistance, lack of political will, and the systematic non-compliance with their decisions by the Venezuelan government. Furthermore, the study reflects on the importance of political rights as an essential component for ensuring citizen participation and accountability in a democratic system. It concludes that, although the Inter-American Human Rights System has been instrumental in exposing and documenting violations of political rights, its practical impact depends on internal factors such as institutional independence, effective international pressure, and active civil society engagement. The Venezuelan experience confirms that the formal proclamation of rights is not enough; their enforcement requires political will, functional democratic institutions, and an environment that fosters pluralistic participation without reprisals. Therefore, the study issues an urgent call to strengthen monitoring and enforcement mechanisms and to promote comprehensive strategies that ensure the effective realization of political rights as a guarantee of substantive democracy.