Nicaragua: Protests follow expulsion of UN human rights team August 31 /update 41

Event

The government of Nicaragua expelled a UN human rights delegation on Thursday, August 30, resulting in short protests in the capital of Managua the following day. In response to the expulsion of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (UNHCR) team, protesters assembled in Managua, near the Central American University (UCA), temporarily disrupting traffic. Pro-government protesters also gathered at the nearby Ruben Dario roundabout. No clashes between security forces and protesters were reported.

Context

The expulsion follows a report released by the UNHCR on Wednesday, August 29, documenting human rights abuses since April 18, including extrajudicial killings, disproportionate use of force, disappearances, arbitrary detention, and instances of torture and sexual violence against prisoners.

The current unrest, which began with small student protests in Managua, rapidly expanded. Regular protests have repeatedly led to deadly clashes, looting, and other violence. Human rights groups estimate that at least 317 people have been killed in relation to the protests since April, with thousands more wounded. Around 23,000 people have fled the country. Activists accuse the government and pro-government militias of committing serious human rights violations, including extrajudicial killings, using weapons of war against protesters, arbitrary detentions, torture, excessive use of force, raiding homes without a warrant, and attacking the press.

Advice

Individuals in Nicaragua, particularly in Managua, are advised to closely monitor the situation, strictly avoid all protests due to the risk of violence and arrest, and adhere to any advice issued by their home governments. Some countries, including the US, the UK, and France continue to advise their citizens to postpone nonessential travel to the country until further notice.