IAB condemns human rights violations in Venezuela
The International Association of Broadcasting (IAB), which represents more than 17,000 radio and television stations in the three Americas, expresses its deepest concern over the grave situation of freedom of expression and press freedom in Venezuela.
In the context of the peaceful protests that took place on January 9, there were attacks against journalists, who were stripped of their work equipment, as well as multiple cases of arbitrary detentions, forced disappearances, Internet blockades and threats against the media. These facts show the deterioration of the situation of freedom of expression in the country.
These repressive actions, carried out by agents of the State, constitute a flagrant violation of the principles established in international human rights treaties and of the responsibilities of the Venezuelan State under international law.
IAB urges the immediate release of all those illegally detained and the cessation of persecution against journalists and human rights defenders. It also makes an urgent appeal to the international community to join in forcefully calling for an end to the repression and guaranteeing the protection of human rights in Venezuela.