IFJ Demands Respect for Journalists in Venezuela

The Executive Committee of the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), meeting in Brussels on 28 and 29 June, has demanded an end to attacks against journalists in Venezuela and called on the government and media companies in the country to ensure the printing and circulation of newspapers in the country is carried out. The IFJ Executive Committee has issued the following statement:- Considering:- That so far this year , according to our affiliate, the National Union of Press Workers, there have been 205 assaults - including fisical attacks, detentions and theft of equipment – against local  journalists and foreign correspondents in Venezuela- That the rate of dismissals of media workers has increased - That to date national and regional media have stopped running temporarily or permanently and all print media have substantially reduced the number of pages as a result of the shortage of paper The International Federation of Journalists: - Demands an immediate end to the intimidation , abuse and violence of workers who are victims of the media in Venezuela . IFJ condemns violence in all its manifestations. This affects the practice of journalism and the quality of life of media workers - Demands effective action of the Venezuelan government and media companies to ensure regular supply of newsprint and other inputs that affect the free circulation of newspapers . The IFJ says that any direct or indirect measure that limits the circulation of media, constitutes a serious attack on press freedom - Expresses its solidarity and international support to its affiliate, the National Union of Press Workers of Venezuela (SNTP), recognizes the gravity of what is happening in Venezuela and made ​​a strong appeal to the international community to demand in all fórums promoting and defending freedom of expression, to guarantee the free exercise of journalism in Venezuela For more information, please contact IFJ on +32 2 235 22 17 The IFJ represents more than 600 000 journalists in 134 countries