IACHR warns of acts that threaten freedom of expression in Venezuela

This Thursday, the Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression (RELE) of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) issued a statement in which it shared its concern over events that threaten the development of freedom of the press and information in the country.

The text mentions repressive acts once morest journalists and members of civil societywhich fuel the deterioration of civic space.

“This Office calls on the State to respect and guarantee freedom of expression and freedom of the press, which are essential for the restoration of democratic culture and respect for human rights in the country.”he pointed the notice.

This year, the Rapporteurship has recorded events in which actions were carried out Judicial harassment, arbitrary arrests, restrictions on access to information, closure of media outlets and stigmatizing statements by senior government officials once morest those who investigate and actively participate in matters of public and political interest.

“Between January and April 2024, there were approximately 128 attacks once morest journalists, activists, human rights defenders, media outlets and civil society organisations, as well as at least 18 arrests of people for exercising their freedom of expression”the writing continued.

The body recalled that In the last 20 years, approximately 400 media outlets have been closed in Venezuela.including press, radio, television channels and digital platforms.

This year alone, at least 13 radio stations have closed.

The group reiterated its call to the administration of Nicolás Maduro “to respect and guarantee the right to freedom of expression, especially of journalists and communicators, who contribute to public debate”.