The International Young Christian Workers (IYCW) strongly condemns the military aggression, foreign intervention, and the reported kidnapping of the Head of the state of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, carried out by the government of the United States of America on 3 January 2026.
These actions constitute a grave violation of international law and of the fundamental principles of the United Nations Charter, including respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, political independence, and the right of peoples to self-determination. The use of military force, combined with the unlawful seizure of a head of state, forms part of a broader pattern of escalating aggression in the region, including reports of U.S. forces killing civilian fishermen and subsequently labeling them as criminals without evidence or due process. Such extrajudicial violence against civilians undermines international norms, threatens global stability, and fosters a climate of fear, impunity, and human rights violations.
As a global movement of young workers inspired by Christian values and committed to justice, peace, and human dignity, IYCW categorically rejects militarism, imperialism, political abductions, and foreign intervention that harm civilian populations or violate the right of peoples to self-determination. We affirm that conflicts between nations must be resolved through peaceful means—dialogue, diplomacy, and respect for international law.
IYCW firmly rejects all forms of oppression and human-rights violations, whether imposed through foreign intervention or exercised by national authorities against their own people. The dignity, freedoms, and rights of peoples must always be respected. We call the international community to act responsibly, to prioritize the protection of civilian life, and to uphold the principles of peace, dialogue, and lawful coexistence among nations.
We express our profound solidarity with the people of Venezuela, especially with the communities and places directly affected by this attack. Our thoughts are with the families who have endured fear, trauma, loss, and disruption to their daily lives. No people should be forced to suffer violence or insecurity as a result of geopolitical power struggles. The protection of human life and dignity must remain at the center of all political action.
To our comrades in JOC Venezuela—particularly young workers, community leaders, and popular movements—we stand with you in solidarity. You are not alone. Your dignity, resilience, and struggle for peace and self-determination are shared by young workers and people of conscience around the world.
We renew our urgent call for peace, dialogue, and respect for international law as the only path toward justice and lasting security. May solidarity overcome violence, and may peace prevail over aggression.
“The good of the beloved Venezuelan people must prevail over every other consideration and lead us to overcome violence and to undertake paths of justice and peace, safeguarding the country’s sovereignty..." – Pope Leo XIV
IYCW - Brussels, 5 January 2026
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