Nicaragua: Protests commemorating 2018 civil unrest possible in Managua and nationwide, April 17-19

Event

Anti-government protests and gatherings are possible in Managua and nationwide April 17-19. The possible gatherings are linked to the anniversary of the start of anti-government protests April 18, 2018. The protests were sparked by the government's decision to make changes to the country's pension system. The authority's dispersal of demonstrations following the initial announcement resulted in high numbers of casualties.

The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has indicated in its updated Nicaragua travel advisory that a heavier police presence is likely and that demonstrations and traffic disruptions are possible April 17-18. The FCDO did not elaborate further. The US Embassy in Nicaragua has issued a demonstration alert warning of protests in Managua, April 18 and 19. The embassy has noted that there is a potential for disruption in multiple areas of the city, including Metrocentro, Galerias, Camino de Oriente malls, the parking lots of Edificio BAC, LAFISE Bank, the area surrounding Universidad Centroamericana (UCA), the Holiday Inn Convention Center parking lot, and the second entrance to Las Colinas. A police presence is also likely in the Plaza Las Victorias area. The embassy did not elaborate further.

Officials will almost certainly deploy to any commemorative or protest event. Protests could occur in city centers, public squares, and near government buildings nationwide. Clashes between demonstrators and the police are likely. Ground travel disruptions are also likely near any demonstration. Localized ground travel delays could occur near protest sites and areas where police are deploying.

Advice

Monitor local media and liaise with trusted contacts regarding possible protest sites. Avoid all demonstrations and concentrations of security personnel. Plan for potential disruptions near protest sites and in areas covered by embassy warnings.