Venezuela orders lifting of restrictions on web platforms

Venezuela's Acting President Delcy Rodriguez ordered the lifting of administrative restrictions against several websites and media outlets following dialogue between the government and different sectors of society.

Rodriguez welcomed progress in talks between government representatives and former lawmakers from the 2015 National Assembly, as well as discussions held under the Program for Peace and Democratic Coexistence.

A statement by the Communication and Information Ministry said authorities aim to ensure that the national media serve the public interest and protect Venezuelans' right to truthful and timely information.

The Program for Peace and Democratic Coexistence had recommended earlier this month that the government remove restrictions on the domains of media outlets.

The recommendation followed consultations with national, public, private and alternative media, as well as social media influencers.

The initiative said the consultations sought to promote "greater and better communication, transparency, diversity and pluralism." It also urged measures supporting freedom of expression "within a framework of respect and responsibility."

Talks between the government and representatives of the 2015 National Assembly began in August as part of a broader dialogue process.

The government says the talks are intended to address political, economic and social issues and promote coexistence among Venezuelans.

In August, authorities announced the release of dozens of people detained in connection with political cases following the first round of talks.