Aindrias Moynihan
Question:56. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs his assessment of the current situation in Nicaragua; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19925/23]
View answerThursday, 27 April 2023
Questions (56)
Written answers
I remain gravely concerned by the situation in Nicaragua. The continued human rights violations, crackdowns on opposition voices, civil society and independent media, and the ongoing backsliding on democratic norms, are unacceptable.
Ireland fully supported the most recent EU statement on 18 April 2023, which condemned five years of repression in Nicaragua and called for the liberation of all political prisoners, a return to the rule of law, the full return of international human rights organisations, and genuine, inclusive dialogue. The EU also reiterated its readiness to support all efforts aimed at a democratic, peaceful and negotiated solution to the protracted political crisis in Nicaragua.
Ireland, and EU partners, have taken note of the recent decision by the Nicaraguan authorities to withdraw agreement for the Ambassador-designate of the EU to Nicaragua. Ireland and the EU remain convinced that fully fledged diplomatic relations and constructive dialogue should be the norm in bilateral relations, and hope that the Government of Nicaragua will reconsider its decision.
Ireland, together with EU partners, will remain actively engaged on the situation in Nicaragua in order to support a return to democratic norms and the protection of fundamental freedoms in the country. This includes engagement on the ground through the EU Delegation in Managua and our Embassy in Mexico, which covers Nicaragua, as well as through interaction with our civil society partners and engagement at key international fora.
Most recently, Ireland actively participated in discussions on Nicaragua at the Human Rights Council in March 2023, when we made a National Statement during the dialogue with the Group of Human Rights Experts on Nicaragua, highlighting that the actions of the Nicaraguan authorities are contrary to the Universal Declaration on Human Rights. We also supported and provided input to statements by the EU and other international partners on Nicaragua during that session of the Council, as well as endorsing a resolution on the protection of human rights in Nicaragua.
My Department will continue to engage on the situation in Nicaragua through all of the above fora in support of an end to political repression, a return to full democratic norms and respect for human rights for the people of Nicaragua.