Venezuela’s Continuing Crisis

Special ongoing coverage of the effect of political turmoil on journalists

The political crisis in Venezuela has polarized society and led to increased intolerance and impunity, multiplying the risks for journalists.

Because of Venezuelan president Hugo Chávez Frías’ inflammatory rhetoric and the active political role that the media have taken in opposing his government, public attacks against beat reporters, photographers, and cameramen have increased. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has also documented attacks against and harassment of journalists working for international and pro-government media outlets. During the last few weeks–and in the context of an opposition-led general strike that began on December 2, 2002–even government security forces have assaulted journalists or kept them from reporting the news.

Below is a special report, titled “Cannon Fodder,” by CPJ research associate Sauro González Rodríguez, which was published in August 2002. Also below are actions CPJ has taken throughout 2002 to respond to attacks against journalists. They will be updated periodically, as events occur. For more information, please contact CPJ program coordinator Carlos Lauría at (212) 465-1004 x112 or via e-mail at americas@cpj.org.

VENEZUELA: CPJ concerned by Chávez’s threatening statements
Versión en español
POSTED February 15, 2002