Statement at the 58th Session of the UN Human Rights Council
Interactive Dialogue on the Report of the Group of Experts on Human Rights on Nicaragua
Delivered by Amaru Ruiz Aleman
Dear members of the Human Rights Council and the Group of Experts,
The new constitution imposed by the Nicaraguan government, which reforms more than 60% of the articles, was not consulted with the citizens, and therefore lacks legitimacy. Article 45 of this constitution restricts the right to Freedom of Association, forcing organisations to integrate the so-called “Fundamental Principles” in their nature and purposes. It is concerning that the Nicaraguan government intends to subordinate international instruments to the constitution, as stated in Article 182.
The Nicaraguan government continues to close the civic space of the country, which has meant the arbitrary closure of 80% of the existing organisations. Many of the programs for the development and care of vulnerable groups have not been replaced by the State, they have expropriated the assets of the organisations and their members continue to be criminalized. For this reason, CIVICUS Monitor considers the civic space of civil society in Nicaragua as closed.
Finally, we call for the immediate release of at least 8 indigenous forest rangers and territorial defenders, who were arbitrarily detained and sentenced by the Nicaraguan government. We appreciate the rigorous and systematic work of the Expert Group and the Office of the High Commissioner, we consider the continuity of their mandates necessary and we request the support of the States.
Thank you very much.
