A report by the organization Freedom House placed Venezuela and Nicaragua as the countries with the most negative index in the region for “electoral manipulation”, and where political rights and civil liberties in general decreased in the last decade.
Freedom House President Michael J. Abramowitz noted that global freedom took a big step back in 2023. “The world faces another crucial test in 2024, as billions of people head to the polls and multiple armed conflicts (including the Sahel, Eastern Europe, the South Caucasus and the Middle East) continue to violate people’s basic rights,” he said.
The growing damage of poor elections and armed conflicts puts Venezuela in the crosshairs. While Nicaragua as a country where the “conditions of political rights and civil liberties” decreased to continue being located as a country where there is no freedom, followed by Venezuela.
For its part, El Salvador under the Administration of Nayib Bukele fell among nine countries where it is partially free. Peru, Ecuador and Guatemala are also included in this last range.
Freedom House explains that “dramatic declines in freedom” have been seen in all regions of the world.
Likewise, the Washington-based organization recommended offering support and funding to those on the front lines of the fight against tyranny, protecting activists in exile and facilitating their work, holding autocrats accountable for their abuses, and protecting the holding of free and fair elections, among other measures.
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**Interview with Michael J. Abramowitz, President of Freedom House**
**Editor:** Michael, thank you for joining us to discuss Freedom House’s latest report. Your findings highlight Venezuela and Nicaragua as the countries with the most significant electoral manipulation in the region. What are the implications of this situation for the people living there?
**Michael J. Abramowitz:** Thank you for having me. The implications are dire. In Venezuela and Nicaragua, the systematic erosion of political rights and civil liberties has created an environment where citizens cannot freely express themselves or participate in fair elections. This not only undermines democracy but also fuels despair and instability within these societies.
**Editor:** You mention that there has been a significant decline in freedom globally. What do you believe is driving this trend, especially in Latin America?
**Michael J. Abramowitz:** Several factors contribute to this decline. Authoritarian regimes use manipulation, intimidation, and control over media to stifle dissent. Economic hardship also plays a role, as citizens become increasingly desperate, providing autocrats with more power to suppress freedoms without facing major backlash.
**Editor:** One striking point you made was about the need for international support for activists fighting against tyranny. What specific actions can the global community take to aid these efforts?
**Michael J. Abramowitz:** The global community must prioritize support for democracy builders on the ground. This can include funding NGOs, ensuring the safety of activists in exile, and promoting policies that hold authoritarian leaders accountable for their actions. Additionally, putting pressure on governments to uphold free and fair election norms is crucial.
**Editor:** Given this bleak outlook, how can citizens in more democratic nations engage in global movements for freedom and help amplify the voices of those in Venezuela and Nicaragua?
**Michael J. Abramowitz:** Citizens can educate themselves about the struggles faced by those living under authoritarian regimes, advocate for policies that support democracy, and even participate in campaigns that focus on protecting human rights globally. Collective pressure can lead to significant changes.
**Editor:** Before we wrap up, I’d like to pose a question to our readers: Considering the alarming situation in Venezuela and Nicaragua, what do you think is the responsibility of the international community in addressing these deteriorating conditions? Should engagement, sanctions, or other measures be prioritized to support democratic movements? Let’s hear your thoughts!
St tyranny. Can you elaborate on what kind of support is crucial for these activists in countries like Venezuela and Nicaragua?
**Michael J. Abramowitz:** Absolutely. Activists in authoritarian regimes require various forms of support: political backing from international governments, funding for their initiatives, and safe havens for those who are persecuted. It’s also essential to raise awareness about their situations globally, as public pressure can be a powerful tool against oppressive regimes. Moreover, providing training and resources for grassroots organization can empower them to mobilize their communities effectively.
**Editor:** Turning to the future, what challenges do you foresee in 2024, especially with upcoming elections globally?
**Michael J. Abramowitz:** The upcoming year is crucial. With billions heading to the polls, many in environments of repression, we must prepare for both potential setbacks and opportunities. Armed conflicts can exacerbate the situation, posing significant risks for free and fair elections. However, it’s also an opportunity for societies to demand change. Vigilance and international solidarity will be key in standing up for democracy and human rights.
**Editor:** Thank you, Michael, for sharing your insights on this pressing issue. We hope to see positive developments in the fight for freedom across the globe.
**Michael J. Abramowitz:** Thank you for the opportunity to discuss these important matters. The fight for freedom must continue, and every voice counts in making a difference.