Venezuela - Why Such a Dearth of Reporting About Events?

It appears as if a major movement to recapture democracy is underway in our own hemisphere and there is minimal reporting about the demonstrations that are ongoing in Venezuela. Why the reporting seems to be absent is not understandable.

Perhaps Venezuela is an example of democracy gone wrong. For years elected governments either failed or were unable to address the plight of the poor and hopeless amongst their population. That failure gave root to the rise of President Chavez who promised hope to the many impoverished citizens and concomitant reforms. However, his reign has resulted in a dictatorship that is unfriendly at best and outwardly antagonistic toward the Venezuelan intelligentsia and the capitalistic focussed entrepreneurs that are essential for an economy to flourish. His dictatorial socialistic reforms are reminiscent of the efforts of Fidel Castro that have proved disastrous for the Cuban people. Could it be that the rest of the democracies in the world already have a full plate and are unwilling to enter the political fray? Is the US intimidated by the power of Chavez?

Oil is obviously an important ingredient with Venezuelan oil compromising about 10% of the US daily requirement. With present high fuel prices already burdening consumers, it may be that the US government is taking a wait and see attitude before making any statements that may be sympathetic to the Venezuelan demonstrators. Chavez on the other hand is stating that the US is involved and attempting to provide covert support for his overthrow.

The demonstrations that have remained peaceful for the most part seem to have a broad base of support from students, business people and other members of the middle class that sustain the economy and provide a beacon for those that aspire to improve their economic station. Television reports that emanate from Venezuela, primarily as the result of a FOX news crew on site in Caracas clearly show a people that are attempting to gain the attention of the world and communicate their message that Venezuela is falling into a dictatorial abyss. Sadly, without news of their plight able to successfully reach the rest of the world, they will go unnoticed and Chavez will remain unchecked as he methodically consolidates his power and slowly eradicates democratic institutions.

It appears as if no leader has emerged to propel the demonstrations and provide a directed focus to their efforts. Perhaps this is a testament to the fear of Chavez that exists. The next few days will reveal the determination of the demonstrators and if Chavez has the patience to reach some accommodation with them.

Venezuela may be a textbook case of the rise and fall of a democracy. Time will tell.