Persecution of Catholic Church Intensifies in Nicaragua, Says UN Human Rights Office
(EFE) – The Office of the United Nations for Human Rights has reported that the persecution of members of the Catholic Church has intensified in recent months in Nicaragua, as part of the deterioration of freedoms in the country and the increasing restrictions on civic space.
Nada Al-Nashif, the UN deputy high commissioner for human rights, denounced this situation and called on the Daniel Ortega regime to “stop its persecution against the Church and civil society” in an updated report on the situation in Nicaragua before the United Nations Human Rights Council.
According to the report, which covers the period after the previous session of the Council dedicated to Nicaragua, six members of the Church have been expelled from the country in recent months, and another four have been arrested. One of the emblematic cases mentioned in the report is that of Bishop Rolando Álvarez, who is currently serving a 26-year prison sentence without a trial in the La Modelo de Tipitapa prison. Al-Nashif highlighted that Álvarez is being held in conditions that violate human rights norms and standards, without being able to receive visits and with poor hygiene conditions.
The high commissioner also revealed that at least three dioceses have had their accounts frozen after the National Police accused the Catholic institution of money laundering. In addition, during the recent Holy Week celebrations, the police intimidated priests and participants in processions from at least four churches in the country, effectively banning these religious demonstrations.
Al-Nashif emphasized that these actions constitute a violation of the right to religious freedom in Nicaragua. She further stated that the restrictions on public space in the country, combined with the erosion of the rule of law, prevent the enjoyment of human rights, especially for dissenting voices.
The report also highlighted the recent waves of arrests of human rights defenders, political opponents, journalists, and peasant activists in Nicaragua. Al-Nashif recalled the arrest of 63 people on May 3, with 55 of them accused of crimes commonly used against opponents, such as the dissemination of false news.
Furthermore, the deputy high commissioner denounced the attacks on Nicaraguan indigenous peoples, particularly by settlers. She mentioned an incident on March 11 that resulted in the death of five people in the Mayangna Wilú community.
Al-Nashif also criticized Nicaragua’s lack of participation in the United Nations human rights mechanisms, as the country’s delegation did not participate in the recent dialogue on the country in the Council. She called on the Nicaraguan authorities to reestablish a meaningful dialogue with the UN office and human rights mechanisms. Additionally, she urged for the immediate and unconditional release of those arbitrarily detained by the Ortega regime.
The persecution of the Catholic Church and the deteriorating human rights situation in Nicaragua continue to be a cause for concern, both within the country and internationally. The UN’s call for action and dialogue aims to address these issues and ensure the protection of human rights in Nicaragua.
How has the persecution of the Catholic Church in Nicaragua affected other religious groups and indigenous communities in the country
Ation of money laundering, a measure that hampers the ability of the Church to carry out its social and charitable work. Additionally, priests and church officials have faced harassment, threats, and intimidation from state authorities, including arbitrary detention and surveillance.
The report also highlights the attack on the San Miguel Arcángel Church in Masaya, where members of the Catholic Church had sought refuge during the 2018 protests against the government. The attack resulted in the death of two people and the wounding of several others. The UN Human Rights Office called for a thorough and impartial investigation into these incidents and for those responsible to be held accountable.
The UN’s concerns are not limited to the persecution of the Catholic Church. The report also highlights the deteriorating situation of other religious groups, including evangelicals and indigenous communities, who face similar restrictions and harassment.
The intensification of the persecution against the Catholic Church in Nicaragua is reflective of the broader deterioration of human rights in the country. The Ortega regime has been widely criticized for its crackdown on dissent and the erosion of democratic institutions. The UN has called on the government to respect and protect human rights, including the rights to freedom of religion and belief, freedom of expression, and the freedom of peaceful assembly.
The international community must continue to monitor and address the worsening situation in Nicaragua, and exert pressure on the Ortega regime to put an end to the persecution of the Catholic Church and the restriction of civic space. It is essential to ensure the protection of the fundamental rights and freedoms of all Nicaraguans and to support efforts to restore democracy and the rule of law in the country.
It is disheartening to witness the UN denouncing the alarming escalation of persecution against the Catholic Church in Nicaragua. The continued suppression of religious freedom contradicts the principles of tolerance and peaceful coexistence that the UN strives to uphold. Urgent action must be taken to ensure the safety and protection of religious minorities in Nicaragua.
It is disheartening to witness the UN’s report on the worsening persecution faced by the Catholic Church in Nicaragua. Respect for religious freedom is a fundamental human right, and it is crucial that the international community stands united against such oppression.