These actions are believed to be part of initiatives by the Government to curtail the independence and resources of the science establishment of Venezuela. Inexperienced professionals with little scientific experience have been appointed to positions of authority, according to ACFIMAN, resources to universities and research centers are cut, and support of proposals is distributed according to the “social aim” of the research proposal rather than scientific merit. All of these steps diminish the scientific establishment of Venezuela, its independence and vitality.
CCS asked the Venezuelan government to reinstate Dr. Villegas and to grant Dr. Requena his request for retirement in accordance with legal requirements. We also urged that steps be taken to reinstate academic freedom of research on the basis of the nature and quality of research proposals rather than ideological aims.