Sir, I would say that the government probably doesn't appreciate the award, but because of its profile and because of the way in which it's presented by us as an opportunity to support civil society, and because it does bring together a lot of groups in the country, I think it probably respects the award and chooses not to attack it nor the recipients publicly, because of the profile and the fact that the Government of Canada is behind it. In that sense it is effective, but I can't imagine the government enjoys a country coming in and recognizing human rights defenders. It has placed itself in the position which has led us to take a decision to advance this award. Again, I don't know whether it is unique to Venezuela or outside of our region, but certainly in the case of Venezuela, the award does have an impact, which the government recognizes, but I don't think it appreciates it.
On October 23rd, 2012. See this statement in context.