Interactive Dialogue on High Commissioner’s Report on Nicaragua
Statement by the Delegation of the United States of America
Human Rights Council – 54th Session
Thank you, Mr. Vice President.
Thank you, High Commissioner Türk, for your overview of the grim human rights situation in Nicaragua.
The United States welcomes your report and shares your concerns about the ongoing erosion of democracy and alarming human rights crisis unfolding across the country.
We strongly condemn the regime’s anti-democratic actions, including politically motivated detentions and transnational repression through the denial of reentry and the unjust revocations of citizenship targeted at political opponents, civil society activists, students, and religious leaders released to other countries.
We continue to call for the immediate, unconditional release of Bishop Rolando Álvarez, and all those unjustly detained for exercising their human rights. We deplore the government’s attacks on religious institutions. We also find the shuttering of more than 3,000 non-governmental organizations, numerous independent media outlets, and 27 universities unacceptable.
Despite tremendous obstacles, including the closure of civic spaces, Nicaraguan civil society continues to fight for human rights and fundamental freedoms. I am grateful for and in awe of their courage.
The United States is committed to working with the international community to urge the restoration of democracy and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms in Nicaragua.
Mr. High Commissioner, what additional actions can the international community take to address the deterioration of the human rights situation in Nicaragua?
I thank you.
###