Venezuela: 13 Freedom of Expression Violations Recorded in May

The Venezuelan organization Espacio Público reported 13 violations of freedom of expression in May, documenting cases of censorship, intimidation of journalists, restricted access to public information, and concerns over a death in state custody. This brings the total from January to May 2026 to 104 violations and 29 detentions.

A significant concern highlighted was the death of Víctor Hugo Quero Navas, who had been in state custody since January 2025. Although his death occurred on July 24, 2025, the information was only released on May 7. Espacio Público questioned the delay in notification and called for a thorough investigation, stating that "death in custody creates a presumption of state responsibility that must be clarified with evidence."

“

el acceso a datos sobre la ejecución de medidas de gracia es de estricto interés público y no requiere motivación especial

The organization also criticized the opacity surrounding the application of an amnesty law passed in February. The Ministry of Public Affairs refused to provide detailed data on releases, precautionary measures, and other aspects, offering only an aggregated figure of 8,616 beneficiaries. Espacio Público reiterated that access to information on amnesty measures is of "strict public interest."

Furthermore, a forum co-hosted with the Catholic University Andrés Bello highlighted international and national experts questioning a "Law Against Hate." Pedro Vaca, the special rapporteur for freedom of expression for the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, suggested the law should be repealed, calling Venezuela's legislation an "anti-example" for its impact on public debate. The report also noted continued harassment of journalists covering events in various Venezuelan states.

“

antiejemplo