Event Summary
Since the July 2024 elections, a progressive deterioration of the right to freedom of expression and access to a safe digital environment has been documented. In mid-year, the Office of the Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression reported on this situation in a statement, characterizing it as marked by fear and self-censorship. However, since July 2024, control over the digital space has intensified, along with the use of digital platforms to spread false information and stigmatize activists, journalists, and organizations.
Thus, access to information has deteriorated in Venezuela since the presidential elections of July 2024. This situation has been compounded by the use of social media and news outlets for the dissemination of false information, while stigmatization and accusations of involvement in criminal activities have become commonplace. A notable example is the stigmatization campaign against Cazadores de Fake News and El Nacional on social media. Regarding online access to information, more than a year has passed since the announcement of the blocking of the platform X in Venezuela on 8 August 8 2024.