On September 19, 2024, the European Parliament in Strasbourg recognized Edmundo González Urrutia as the legitimate and democratically elected president of Venezuela. This decision, backed by the European People's Party (EPP) and far-right groups, passed with 309 votes in favor, 201 against, and 12 abstentions.
The resolution also acknowledges María Corina Machado as the leader of the democratic forces in Venezuela. However, an amendment proposed by social democrats, liberals, and greens prevented the text from calling on the EU and its member states to officially recognize González, reflecting a significant political divide within the Parliament.
In urging the EU to facilitate González's presidency by January 10, 2025, the Parliament emphasized the need to respect the will of the Venezuelan people as a pathway to restoring democracy and addressing the ongoing humanitarian crisis. The resolution also calls for the International Criminal Court to investigate human rights violations under Nicolás Maduro's regime and demands the immediate release of political prisoners.
This move marks a notable shift in the European Parliament's stance, as it aligns with far-right parties rather than the traditional left-leaning coalition. The recognition comes amid ongoing discussions about the legitimacy of the Venezuelan electoral process, which has been criticized for lacking transparency and fairness.
As the situation in Venezuela remains precarious, the European Parliament's resolution serves as a symbolic gesture aimed at pressuring EU member states to take a firmer stance against Maduro's government, though its actual impact on international relations and Venezuelan politics remains to be seen.