Venezuela's New Chokehold on Civil Society


 

Publication Date: October 2005

Publisher: Heritage Foundation (Washington, D.C.)

Author(s): Stephen Johnson

Research Area: Politics

Keywords: Latin American

Type: Brief

Coverage: Venezuela

Abstract:

Concealed in language that evokes respect for human rights, fundamental freedoms, peace, and democracy, Venezuela's National Assembly has drafted a draconian bill that would block foreign donations to local non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and put such groups under state control. For now, Venezuela's new International Cooperation Law is a framework, but when filled in by President Hugo Chávez, it will muzzle the few voices that still provide a check on his creeping dictatorship.