UNITED NATIONS HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL

60^th Session

Interactive Dialogue following the report of the High Commissioner on Nicaragua

23 September 2025

EU Statement

Mr President,

Mr High Commissioner,

The European Union thanks you for this report, which depicts the deteriorated situation of human rights in Nicaragua. We regret Nicaragua’s disengagement from the Human Rights Council and from the Universal Periodic Review.

The EU shares your serious concern about the persistent erosion of the rule of law and human rights, including through the reform of the Constitution, which confirms the concentration of powers in the hands of the executive branch, the lack of political pluralism, the deteriorated civic space, and very weak human rights guarantees.

The EU calls for the end of any form of repression against dissenting voices, political opponents, human rights defenders, journalists, civil society, NGOs, including women and Indigenous Peoples’ organisations, and religious institutions. We also call for the immediate and unconditional release of all those who are arbitrarily detained, including political prisoners and those under house arrest. Families of those forcibly disappeared must be informed of their whereabouts. 

The EU is deeply concerned about allegations of torture and other cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment or punishment on detainees, including sexual violence, as well as the targeting of their relatives, forced expulsion, stripping of citizenship, and confiscation of property. 

We reiterate our strong call for the full adherence to international law and obligations enshrined in human rights treaties. We call on Nicaragua to renew cooperation with international human rights organisations, the UN Group of Human Rights Experts and the Office of the High Commissioner.

The EU reaffirms its strong support to the Nicaraguan people and to all efforts aimed at finding a Nicaraguan-led democratic, peaceful and negotiated solution to the on-going political crisis. 

Mr High Commissioner,

Could you please elaborate on the possible use of transnational repression against dissenting voices?

Thank you.