Venezuela
Venezuela remains one of the most hostile environments for independent journalism in Latin America. Following the disputed 2024 presidential election, repression of journalists, civil society and political opponents intensified. In January 2026, Nicolás Maduro was captured by foreign authorities and transferred to the United States to face criminal charges. Vice President Delcy Rodríguez assumed the presidency, triggering a power struggle within the ruling elite. Despite these political developments, restrictions on press freedom have remained firmly in place, with independent journalists continuing to face intimidation, censorship and arbitrary detention. Venezuela ranks 159th out of 180 countries in the RSF World Press Freedom Index.
A hostile environment for journalists
Journalists in Venezuela operate in an increasingly restrictive environment. Government officials regularly accuse independent media of conducting "media warfare" against the state, fuelling hostility towards journalists and undermining public trust in independent reporting. Surveillance, intimidation and online harassment further complicate journalists' work, while civil society remains severely restricted.
Arrests and prosecutions
The beginning 2024 has already seen high-profile arrests of activists like Rocío San Miguel. The pre-electoral arrests were indicative of an upcoming challenging electoral period.
Following Maduro’s controversial re-election in a process lacking trasparency as criticized by organizations such as the Carter Center and the United Nations, there has been a marked increase in arrests and censorship of journalists. By August 2024, approximately 1,400 individuals had been detained for participating in opposition protests or expressing dissent during the post-electoral period.
Continued crackdown after the political transition
The political developments of January 2026 did little to improve conditions for independent journalism. Following Maduro's capture, at least 14 journalists were detained or had their equipment seized while covering events across the country. Reporting from detention centres, including El Helicoide, remained heavily restricted. Although the government announced the release of more than 600 political detainees, hundreds of activists and political prisoners remain behind bars.
Our work in Venezuela
Free Press Unlimited has supported journalists and independent media in Venezuela for more than seven years. Together with local partner organisations, we strengthen the safety, resilience and sustainability of independent journalism through security support, capacity building and core funding.
Our partners provide emergency assistance to journalists facing threats, harassment or detention because of their work. They also strengthen independent media through professional training, psychosocial support and integrated security programmes. In addition, Free Press Unlimited advocates internationally for greater protection of press freedom in Venezuela.
