HRC61 - EU Statement - Interactive Dialogue with the Group of Human Rights Experts on Nicaragua

United Nations Human Rights Council

61^st Session

Interactive Dialogue with the Group of Human Rights Experts on Nicaragua

16 March 2026

EU Statement

Mr President,

The European Union thanks the Group of Human Rights Experts for their report and reiterates its full support for their mandate. We are particularly alarmed by your findings regarding the gender and transnational dimensions of the repression. 

The EU is gravely concerned by the continued deterioration of democracy, human rights and the rule of law, including through the reform of the Constitution, which confirms the concentration of powers in the hands of the executive branch, as well as the closure of the civic space in Nicaragua. As internal and transnational acts of repression continue unabated, including through the arbitrary deprivation of nationality, they impact individuals both in Nicaragua and in other countries. We call again for the immediate end of repression, including transnational repression, against dissenting voices, civil society, journalists, religious institutions and the political opposition. All those responsible must be held accountable.

We welcome the release of several political prisoners in January. However, we note they are still subject to house arrest. We thus call on the authorities to release immediately and unconditionally all remaining political prisoners, to put an end to arbitrary detentions and house arrest, and to clarify the fate and whereabouts of all detainees. 

We call again for the full return to the rule of law and full compliance with Nicaragua’s human rights obligations as laid down in national and international law. We further condemn the continuous abusive instrumentalisation of international cooperation tools, such as the INTERPOL notices. 

The EU urges Nicaraguan authorities to renew collaboration with the global system of human rights protection. This includes the Human Rights Council and Nicaragua resuming engagement with the Universal Periodic Review. We call on Nicaragua to receive and cooperate respectfully with international human rights organisations, the Group of Human Rights Experts and the Office of the High Commissioner. 

Mr Simon,

What are the human rights’ consequences of the recent decision by Nicaragua to delete the recognition of a dual nationality from its Constitution for persons in exile and Nicaraguans in the country?

Thank you.