Venezuela: Multiple Journalists Barred from Reporting at Central Hospital
Hospital employee prevents reporters from filming interview with Health Union representatives
Location: Venezuela, Caracas
Date: June 14, 2024
Women Press Freedom fully supports journalists Luzfrandy Contreras, Luz Dary Depablos, Tatiana Ortiz, and Zulma López, who were prevented from filming an informational bulletin in the Táchira Hospital parking lot while conducting an interview with Health Union representatives. A man, believed to be a hospital employee, approached the reporters, stating that filming was not allowed in the vicinity. We vehemently denounce any efforts to restrict press freedom. We call for the hospital management to provide an explanation and hold those accountable for this obstruction. Journalists must have the freedom to cover matters of public significance without obstacles.
On June 14, 2024, at the Central Hospital of San Cristóbal in Táchira state, journalists Luzfrandy Contreras (Televisora del Táchira), Luz Dary Depablos (La Patilla), Tatiana Ortiz (Táchira News), and Zulma López (Centro de Noticias Táchira) were prevented from filming an informational bulletin in the hospital's parking lot.
Zulma López reported that while conducting an interview with two Health Union representatives, an unidentified man, likely a hospital employee, approached them and informed them that filming in the area was prohibited.
"The director of the Táchira Hospital (in San Cristóbal) has just called, and you cannot record anything here," the man explained when asked about the reason for the restriction. He then suggested that the journalists reach out to the hospital management for further details.
Women Press Freedom stands firmly in solidarity with Luzfrandy Contreras, Luz Dary Depablos, Tatiana Ortiz, and Zulma López. We denounce the obstruction of their journalistic endeavors and the stifling of media coverage, especially on topics of public significance. In a nation like Venezuela, where press freedom has significantly declined, safeguarding journalists from harm is paramount. Their role is essential for democracy and public awareness. We call for transparency from the Táchira Hospital administration and demand accountability for the interference.
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