Geneva, 16 March 2026
Mr. President,
I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States.
We thank the Group of Experts for the latest report and valuable recommendations.
Despite the release of dozens of prisoners, including political and religious activists, in January, the situation in the country continues to deteriorate every day. We remain deeply concerned about the systematic repression of dissent and the sustained climate of fear through surveillance, harassment, arbitrary arrest and detention, enforced disappearance, forced exile and revocation of citizenship.
The Group’s finding of serious, systematic and widespread human rights violations – some reportedly amounting to crimes against humanity – against a broadening segment of the population, inside and outside the country, are staggering.
We are alarmed by the evolving gendered nature of state repression and transnational human rights violations.
The Nicaraguan authorities must stop gross violations and abuses of human rights and fundamental freedoms. We strongly call for full adherence to international law and obligations enshrined in human rights treaties.
We urge Nicaragua to resume cooperation with international human rights mechanisms, the UN Group of Human Rights Experts and the Office of the High Commissioner.
Distinguished experts, how can the international community best ensure accountability for the violations of human rights in Nicaragua and against Nicaraguans living abroad?
I thank you.