International and national organisations, along with regional networks, decry Nicaragua’s non-cooperation during the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) process. Following 279 recommendations provided for the government in November 2024, their report was due for discussion at the Human Rights Council on March 26, 2025. However, Nicaragua failed to submit its report or participate, causing a delay of the process to the 60th Session after its withdrawal from the UN Human Rights Council in February 2025.
The UPR serves as an instrumental mechanism of the UN Human Rights Council that evaluates member states to promote human rights protection. It fosters collaboration through recommendations from other nations, thus encouraging everyone to uphold fundamental human rights. Positive adoption and application of these recommendations are crucial for reclaiming civic space and reinstating human rights guarantees in Nicaragua.
Nicaragua’s absence from these discussions has severe implications on the protection of human rights, as it creates an environment where impunity thrives and violations persist, especially in crisis scenarios. The ongoing turmoil since 2018 necessitates immediate action to recover civil liberties and democratic norms. Therefore, we strongly advocate that Nicaragua recommences its cooperation with the UPR and the Human Rights Council.
The Human Rights Council must respond decisively to Nicaragua’s inaction, as this failure sets a detrimental precedent for the UPR’s effectiveness. UN member states are called upon to remain attentive to the human rights conditions in Nicaragua and support civil society, particularly in safeguarding freedom of expression. The role of institutions like the Human Rights Council is vital for ensuring and advocating for the rights of all Nicaraguans.
The article condemns Nicaragua’s withdrawal from the UN Human Rights Council and its non-cooperation during the Universal Periodic Review process, which has led to a postponement of its evaluation. It stresses the importance of adopting recommendations for restoring human rights in Nicaragua, urging the state to resume its collaboration and calling on UN member states to monitor the situation closely.
In summary, the article highlights Nicaragua’s withdrawal and lack of cooperation with the UN’s Universal Periodic Review, underscoring the detrimental impact this has on human rights in the country. Urging the state to re-engage with the Human Rights Council, the text calls for international vigilance and support for civil society amidst ongoing violations. It stresses the necessity of collaboration between nations to uphold fundamental human rights, particularly in contexts of crisis like Nicaragua has experienced since 2018.
Original Source: www.article19.org
