Criminal code changes to stifle press freedom

New changes to the Venezuelan criminal code are likely to muffle critics of the regime and obscure the transparency of government operations, according to a new Human Rights Watch report.

"By broadening laws that punish disrespect for government authorities, the Venezuelan government has flouted international human rights principles that protect free expression," Human Rights Watch Americas director José Miguel Vivanco sats.

"While countries across Latin America are moving to repeal such laws, Venezuela has enacted further restrictions on the press that will shield officials from public scrutiny." (Avended.org)