The Center for Development Studies (CENDES) of the Central University of Venezuela, together with prominent academics associated with this institution, have been subjected to a smear campaign promoted by Venezuelan government agencies. This campaign, driven by the government of Nicolás Maduro, accuses CENDES of fomenting destabilizing activities in collaboration with national and international actors, as diverse as the Rosa Luxemburg Foundation, USAID, and the German government. These accusations are part of a new wave of repression that began on July 28, 2024, following the disputed results of the presidential elections.
The Latin American Studies Association (LASA) strongly rejects campaigns such as this, which attack academic freedom, the right to dissent and to express differences of opinion, as well as the principle of university autonomy.
About LASA
The Latin American Studies Association (LASA) is the largest professional association in the world for individuals and institutions engaged in the study of Latin America. With over 13,000 members, over 60% of whom reside outside the United States, LASA is the one association that brings together experts on Latin America from all disciplines and diverse occupational endeavors, across the globe. LASA's mission is to foster intellectual discussion, research, and teaching on Latin America, the Caribbean, and its people throughout the Americas, promote the interests of its diverse membership, and encourage civic engagement through network building and public debate.
If you wish to interview a LASA Executive Council member, you can contact the LASA communications office at (412) 648-7929 or send an email to lasa@lasaweb.org.