The recent decision of the Nicaraguan authorities to close over 1,500 non-governmental organizations, including religious groups, and to confiscate their assets, is deeply concerning. 

The EU reiterates its call for fundamental freedoms to be restored in Nicaragua, including the release of all political prisoners and the return of international human rights organizations. We reiterate the need to put an end to restrictions on civic space and respect the right to dissent. 

We call on the Nicaraguan authorities to engage in a genuine and inclusive dialogue with all relevant stakeholders in Nicaragua to address their legitimate demands.