Nicaragua announced on Thursday that it is withdrawing from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) after the release of a UN report accusing President Daniel Ortega’s government of severe human rights violations.
The decision was described as “sovereign and irrevocable” by Vice President and First Lady Rosario Murillo, who stated that the country would no longer participate in any activities related to the council or its associated mechanisms.
The UN report, published on Wednesday, condemned Ortega and Murillo for transforming Nicaragua into an authoritarian state where independent institutions have been dismantled. The report also called on the international community to take legal action against the government for alleged human rights abuses, which it classified as crimes against humanity.
Nicaragua has a long history of dismissing international scrutiny. Ortega’s government has previously disregarded reports from both the UN and the Organisation of American States (OAS), claiming they are part of a coordinated effort to undermine the country’s leadership. Murillo dismissed the latest findings as “falsehoods” and “slander.”
The report’s allegations build on concerns that have persisted since Nicaragua’s 2018 anti-government protests. The demonstrations, initially sparked by controversial social security reforms, escalated into widespread unrest met with violent repression. Over 350 people were killed in the crackdown, drawing global condemnation.
A key revelation in the UN report is the alleged involvement of the Nicaraguan army in the suppression of dissent, contradicting previous denials from military officials. The findings suggest that the armed forces played a direct role in the state’s efforts to silence opposition.
Nicaragua’s withdrawal from the UNHRC underscores its growing isolation on the global stage. By severing ties with the council, Ortega’s government is signaling its defiance against international pressure while reinforcing its stance against external oversight.
Despite its rejection of the report, Nicaragua faces increasing scrutiny from human rights organisations and foreign governments. With allegations of crimes against humanity now under international review, the country’s leadership may encounter mounting legal and diplomatic challenges in the years ahead.
Melissa Enoch
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