Caracas. A new report from the NGO Espacio Público, which was released this Wednesday, November 6, focuses on censorship and limitations on freedom of expression in Venezuela after the elections on July 28, which Nicolás Maduro won with more than 51% of the votes, according to data from the National Electoral Council (CNE).
The 34-page document reports 49 arbitrary arrests to citizens “in retaliation for exercising the right to freedom of expression and information.” Of these, 21 were carried out workers of the Venezuelan press.
The arrests occurred between July 28 and 31, when the country was boiling with protests rejecting the official results of the elections, which Venezuela’s majority opposition described as “fraudulent.”
The report also revealed that more than half – about 12 cases – of the arbitrary arrests of press workers “led to the initiation of judicial proceedings.”
“In all cases, a pattern of formal incommunication is reiterated, prohibition of regular visits, or at least during the first 45 days, denial of a defense of confidence, as well as access to files and information on judicial processes. The public defense imposed denies access to files, in some cases by court orders,” the document reads.
Likewise, the report denounces that, “in the majority of cases,” the law that requires the release of citizens was violated if the Prosecutor’s Office does not present accusations in the first 45 days of their detention.
Journalism changed after 28J
Espacio Público asserts in its report that journalism, and the way of practicing it, “changed” in Venezuela after the presidential elections of last July 28.
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“From a sustained and long-standing repressive context, progress was made in more violent practices, such as the massification of threats and the increase in arbitrary detentions.” with longer incarcerations. The tightening of repression forced journalists to change their routines, partially suspend work, or even resign from their jobs and change jobs,” the NGO stated.
As examples, the report highlights the resignation “for security reasons” of the journalist from a border radio station to continue with an informative program, despite the fact that “There was no arrest warrant against him.”
In a similar case of self-censorship, another communicator decided not to cover the protests against the official results and did not even go to the call sites for fear of arrest.
“Intelligence officials dressed in civilian clothes took photos of the people who attended the demonstrations, including the journalists who were covering them,” says the report about this journalist, who since the elections “he avoids signing the notes he writes.”
Likewise, the document recalls that journalism in Venezuela has experienced “structural changes” in the last two decades to adapt and survive in the face of the systematic censorship policies of the Chavista Government.
“These policies are based on premises that deny diversity, seek to establish a ‘communicational hegemony’, criminalize criticism and deny transparency in public management,” the text reads.
Recommendations to overcome censorship
The report lists a series of recommendations that journalists and infocitizens of Venezuela can put into practice to overcome censorship that the government of Nicolás Maduro tries to impose.
Photo: Public Space
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One of them is the practice of documenting “under confidentiality and anonymity” in the midst of the high-risk context for communicators in Venezuela.
“This practice not only allows you to leave a record of the facts, but also activates various care and protection mechanisms for affected people,” the document says.
Likewise, the report suggests the implementation of measures “that guarantee the safety and freedom of journalists and media workers,” which includes the creation of action protocols and the provision of resources that ensure their timely activation.
Public Space proposes “raising awareness about freedom of expression” as a tool for Venezuela’s return to the democratic path.
This includes the promotion of education programs that highlight the importance of freedom of expression and the press “for fair and dignified coexistence” in Venezuela.
“It is essential to add active defenders of freedom of information, and incorporate citizens as the main beneficiaries of the exercise of rights. This includes awareness campaigns aimed at citizens and to the authorities,” reads the text.
Finally, the NGO recommends the promotion of democratic, transparent and independent institutions in Venezuela. “It is essential for guarantee the independence of the judiciary and so that journalists and media workers can adequately defend themselves in cases of arbitrary arrests and judicial proceedings.”
Redaction: Ron Gonzalez / Chronicle One
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D confidentiality of sources,” as well as utilizing secure communication tools to minimize the risk of surveillance and exposure.
The report emphasizes the importance of building networks of support among journalists to share resources, training, and emotional support, helping individuals navigate the challenges posed by the current landscape of repression. Furthermore, it highlights the necessity of international solidarity, encouraging journalists and organizations abroad to advocate for press freedom and bring attention to the plight of those operating under oppressive regimes.
despite the oppressive environment, the resilience of Venezuelan journalists remains robust. Their commitment to uncovering the truth is evident, as they adapt and innovate in face of censorship and harassment. This determination is crucial not only for their own safety but for the survival of democracy and informed citizenship in Venezuela.