CPJ's Recommendations

CPJ calls on the Venezuelan government to implement the following recommendations:

Ensure RCTV is given a fair and equal opportunity to apply for concession renewal. Ensure the station has the opportunity to present its case in a neutral venue and has the right to a full appeal in court.
Guarantee fairness and transparency in the allocation of broadcast concessions by providing a clear explanation of the process and the criteria used in making decisions.
Repeal Article 29 of the Law of Social Responsibility in Radio and Television, which contains broad restrictions on the press.
Repeal criminal defamation and desacato provisions in the penal code.
Show greater tolerance toward criticism in the press and halt personal attacks aimed at discrediting journalists and their news outlets.
Guarantee plurality and diversity of opinion by granting private news media greater access to government events, buildings, institutions, and sources.
Cease official manipulation of government advertising based on political considerations.
Stop harassing journalists by filing criminal defamation lawsuits.

Special Reports