Venezuela: Espacio Público reports rising censorship and intimidation

The non-governmental organization Espacio Público has reported a persistent pattern of censorship and intimidation in Venezuela. Between January and August 2026, the organization documented 89 cases involving 170 reported violations of freedom of expression, representing a 2% increase compared to the same period in 2025.

Key restrictions include the closure of at least four radio stations in Táchira, Miranda, Carabobo, and the Capital District, as well as the blocking of 40 websites, including news portals and investigative journalism outlets. Espacio Público's executive director, Carlos Correa, noted that while there have been minor signs of opening, intimidation remains the primary method of restriction.

Correa also criticized the Law against Hate, stating it has created an ‘architecture of fear’ through vague definitions and disproportionate penalties. He noted that offenses related to hate speech can carry sentences of up to 20 years, which he described as an absolute disproportion compared to other crimes. Furthermore, he alleged the law is being used to detain individuals for the purpose of extortion and to suppress public scrutiny of government management.