Status: Partly Free
Legal Environment: 19
Political Influences: 15
Economic Pressures: 10
Total Score: 44
Population: n/a
GNI/capita: n/a
Life Expectancy: 73
Religious Groups: n/a
Ethnic Groups: Mestizo (67 percent), white (21 percent), black (10 percent), Indian (2 percent)
Capital: Caracas
President Hugo Chavez and his government repeatedly attacked the news media through harsh speeches, a court ruling that newspapers must state their political leanings, and threats to pass a "law on content" and revoke the license of a respected television network. A 2000 law empowers the president to suspend broadcasting when he judges it to be in the interest of the nation. Journalists are required to be a member of the National College of Journalists. Criminal defamation laws are enforced against journalists. The constitution, redrafted under Chavez, includes a clause requiring "truthful information" in the press. The National Telecommunications Commission investigated the 24-hour news channel to determine whether it had reported "false news." In June, Chavez threatened to expel foreign journalists who insulted Venezuela or his government.
Disclaimer: © Freedom House, Inc. · All Rights Reserved
This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States.