Poverty rates in Venezuela have often been misunderstood and in turn misquoted in the press, leading to widespread confusion and incorrect reporting in newspapers, radio, television and well respected journals.
This paper, [linked in title] written by the Center for Economic and Policy Research, analyzes how the figures of those living below the poverty line have been misused by the media. It is helpful to compare the cash income and non-cash income of those living in poverty, because it is is far too complex to qualify the social benefits (health care for example), other than to take into account the money that would have been spent on these services if they were not subsidized by the Chavez Government.
We all agree that a fair and independent media play an important role in a democratic society. It is little wonder that Chavez is being opposed by those who want to open the market up to harsh competition, which will only benefit a minority of people and will undo reform aimed at advancing those living in abject poverty.
If Hugo Chavez cannot be provided with accurate news reporting about the economic progress of his government, what hope does he have of fulfilling his vision to bring generations of social inequality to an end?
Charlotte, for a full picture of the poverty numbers in Venezuela one should also look at the papers by Francisco Rodriguez, who has criticized Weisbrot's methodology and conclusions strongly. But you are quite right that accurate reporting is quite essential.
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