Venezuela has cancelled the passports of dozens of journalists and activists since Nicolás Maduro claimed a re-election victory, part of what rights groups say is an intensifying campaign of repression against the authoritarian president’s opponents.
At least 40 people — mostly journalists and human rights activists — have had their passports annulled without explanation, according to Caracas-based rights group Laboratorio de Paz, which warns that the number is likely to be much higher due to Venezuelans’ fear of reporting cases.
Others have had their passports confiscated by authorities while attempting to board flights from the country’s main airport.
“It was terrifying,” said one rights activist, whose passport was taken by authorities at the airport last week without explanation. He declined to give his name for fear of reprisals. “I knew it was a risk that I could have my passport taken or be jailed when I got to the airport, and they went with the former.”
Carla, a journalist who chose not to give her surname, discovered while abroad that her passport had been cancelled.
“I asked myself, ‘now where do I come from,’” said Carla, who is not sure whether she will try to return home.
The cancellation of passports comes amid a wider campaign of repression in response to anti-government protests that broke out following an election verdict that has not been recognised by the Organization of American States, the US and the EU.
Typical socialist playbook. They talk about equality but practice tyranny. And look who's silent - the same folks who scream about oppression when it suits their narrative. Perhaps if these activists were waving another flag, they'd get more sympathy from the woke brigade.
@5MMTLGSLaissez-Faire2mos2MO
Here we go again, mainstream media will barely cover this because it doesn't fit their agenda. Why isn't this on every front page? Oh, right, because it might make the socialist dream look bad. Meanwhile, real people are trapped in a real nightmare.
@TariffVenisonLaissez-Faire2mos2MO
This should be a wake-up call for anyone who thinks socialism is about equality. It's about control. And yet, the silence from the left in our own country is deafening.
This is why a strong, conservative America matters. We need to lead by example, showing that freedom isn't just a word. But what does Biden do? Probably nothing, too busy worrying about ice cream flavors while dictators run amok.
@7ZFDV3DProgressivism2mos2MO
This is a clear violation of human rights! Where's the international outcry? If this was happening in a country the U.S. wanted to invade, we'd hear no end of it. Maduro needs to be held accountable.
@QuaintDeerCentrism2mos2MO
This is exactly why the U.S. should be careful about who it lets in power. Today it's Venezuela, tomorrow it could be here if we're not vigilant. But hey, as long as the oil flows, who cares about some journalists, right? The hypocrisy of the international community is astounding.
@7Y66T5VAnti-Globalization2mos2MO
This is what happens when government overreach goes unchecked. Passports are a basic right for travel, a fundamental freedom. It's a cautionary tale for those advocating for bigger government elsewhere. Where's the outrage from those who claim to defend freedom?
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