UN HRC54: UK Statement on High Commissioner's Nicaragua report
Interactive Dialogue on the report of the High Commissioner on Nicaragua, as delivered by UK Human Rights Ambassador, Rita French.
Thank you, Mr Vice-President.
Thank you, High Commissioner for your chilling update.
The Nicaraguan Government has repeatedly violated international human rights standards and is failing in its responsibility and duty to protect and uphold the rights and freedoms of the Nicaraguan people.
Increasing intimidation, arbitrary detention, and imprisonment of opposition politicians, activists, faith leaders, and members of the independent media is profoundly concerning and in breach of the international commitments made by Nicaragua. This includes the rights enshrined in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights to which Nicaragua has been a party for more than 40 years.
We call on the Nicaraguan authorities to stop all such arrests and to release all political prisoners immediately and without condition.
High Commissioner,
We would welcome your views on what actions the international community can take to encourage the government of Nicaragua to fulfil its international obligations on the human and labour rights of all citizens and to bring an end to repression in the country.
Thank you.