In 1977, Venezuelan environmentalists cheered the creation of their country’s—and Latin America’s—first environment ministry. More applause followed as the new ministry over the next few years developed an impressive array of environmental legislation, indicators and planning, inspiring many Latin American nations to follow suit. But that history halted suddenly this month, as Venezuela’s government eliminated the once-pioneering ministry. An executive decree published on Sept. 2 in the nation’s Official Gazette subsumed the agency in a new, larger entity called the Ministry of Housing, Habitat and Ecosocialism, and converted the post of environment minister to vice-minister. Critics charge the decree reflects a government agenda that favors development over environmental protection. “This is a masterstroke to keep the boot on top of all... [Log in to read more]