UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue on the High Commissioner's Report on Nicaragua. Delivered by the UK's Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.
We are grateful to the High Commissioner for his report.
The continued deterioration of human rights in Nicaragua is deeply concerning. The report reinforces the need for sustained international scrutiny of the systemic dismantling of democratic institutions and repression of civil liberties.
The Nicaraguan authorities' regrettable decision to withdraw from the UN Human Rights Council and other international human rights mechanisms must not deter that scrutiny.
The arbitrary expulsion of citizens, denial of re-entry, and deprivation of nationality are unacceptable and must end.
Moreover, the reformed cybercrime law will enable the arbitrary criminalisation of peaceful expression, contributing to a climate of fear, censorship and of intimidation particularly for journalists in Nicaragua.
The report also sheds further light on violations of the rights of indigenous peoples and people of African descent, as well as evidence of the suppression of religious freedom.
To the Office of the High Commissioner,
We would welcome your views on how the international community can best support implementation of your recommendations and ensure accountability for these serious violations.
Thank you.
