Speaking out in Venezuela.

• Author: Conaway, Janelle
• Position: OAS - Brief Article

SANTIAGO A. CANTON, executive secretary of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, visited Venezuela to explore the state of freedom of expression in that country, in response to an invitation from the Venezuelan government and expressions of concern from civil society. The February 5-8 visit also laid the groundwork for a broader on-site visit by the full commission in May.

Canton, who was also acting in the capacity of special rapporteur for freedom of expression, met with high-level government officials, as well as representatives of the media and nongovernmental organizations. Although he observed "the existence of a broad and eloquent debate of ideas" during his visit, he stressed the importance of being able to express ideas "freely, without suffering arbitrary consequences or intimidating actions."

Canton, who noted that freedom of expression is "a fundamental requisite of democracy," called on Venezuelan authorities and citizens "to search for means of understanding that allow for greater tolerance of criticism and scrutiny, guaranteeing the full exercise of freedom of expression and information." He also underscored the need to...