AIR Denounces Venezuela's Impunity in RCTV Case, Demands Compliance with Court Ruling

Nineteen years after the closure of Radio Caracas Televisión (RCTV) on May 27, 2007, the International Association of Broadcasters (AIR) has condemned the act as a severe breach of free expression, information pluralism, and democratic principles. The organization highlighted Venezuela's continued defiance of an international court ruling that mandates compensation for damages and the restoration of RCTV's broadcast license and confiscated assets.

The Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACHR) declared Venezuela's international responsibility in the case on June 22, 2015. AIR described the unresolved RCTV case as a dangerous precedent for the continent, serving as a stark warning about the risks independent and critical media face when subjected to pressure, harassment, delegitimization, or confrontation from those in power.

AIR reiterated that fully complying with the IACHR's decision would signal Venezuela's respect for international law and its commitments. The association affirmed its solidarity with RCTV's stakeholders and all communicators in the Americas who work under duress, emphasizing that freedom of expression and press are essential democratic pillars. No media outlet should face retaliation or stigmatization for its editorial line or opinions.