World Press Freedom Day: Apevex warns of continued persecution of journalism in Venezuela

On World Press Freedom Day, the Venezuelan Association of Journalists Abroad (Apevex) issued a stark reminder of the perilous state of journalism within Venezuela. Their statement, emphasizing that press freedom is a cornerstone of democratic society and a guarantee for citizens, underscores the severe challenges faced by those who seek to inform the public.

Apevex detailed a disturbing array of threats, including violence, censorship, and both political and economic pressures. The situation in Venezuela is particularly alarming, with arbitrary detentions of journalists and media workers, forced erasure of journalistic material, and systematic obstruction of access to public information. These actions create a climate of fear and severely restrict the ability of independent media to operate.

“

La libertad de prensa no es un privilegio del periodismo: es una garantía para la ciudadanía. Sin un ejercicio periodístico libre, plural y seguro, se debilita el acceso a la verdad, se limita el control social sobre el poder y se pone en riesgo la convivencia democrática

The association paid tribute to journalists who have faced persecution, threats, legal action, or even death for their work. Apevex’s commitment to ethical journalism and the public's right to truthful information remains unwavering, even in the face of such adversity. This dedication highlights the critical role Venezuelan journalists play in holding power accountable, a role that is increasingly dangerous within their homeland.

“

Asimismo, rendimos homenaje a los periodistas que han sido perseguidos, amenazados, judicializados o asesinados por cumplir con su labor. Reivindicamos el valor de quienes, aun en contextos adversos, sostienen el compromiso ético con la verdad y con el derecho ciudadano a recibir información veraz y oportuna