Human rights crisis: Persecution of Christians in Nicaragua escalates to alarming levels

The situation of persecuted Christians in Nicaragua has generated growing concern both nationally and internationally. In recent years, the Nicaraguan government, led by President Daniel Ortega, has intensified repressive measures against religious communities, especially Christians who have openly criticized government policies.

Since the mass protests of 2018, where thousands of Nicaraguans took to the streets to demonstrate against reforms to the social security system and Ortega’s growing autocracy, Christian churches have played a crucial role in providing shelter and support to injured and persecuted protesters. This act of solidarity has not gone unnoticed by the regime, which has responded with violence and harassment.

Priests and religious leaders have been subject to intimidation, arbitrary arrests, and defamation campaigns. In some cases, churches have been attacked and their property damaged by government sympathizers. Reports from human rights organizations indicate that the government has used tactics such as constant surveillance, death threats, and judicial harassment to silence critical clerics.

An emblematic case is that of Bishop Rolando Álvarez, a leading voice in denouncing the regime’s abuses. Álvarez was arrested in August 2022 on charges of “conspiring to destabilize the country.” His arrest sparked international condemnation and calls for his release from human rights groups and religious leaders around the world.

The persecution of Christians in Nicaragua not only affects church leaders, but also the faithful. Many parishioners have reported being monitored and harassed for attending mass or participating in church activities. The situation has led to a climate of fear and self-censorship within religious communities.

The international community, including the Organization of American States (OAS) and the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR), has urged the Ortega government to cease hostilities against Christians and respect religious freedom and fundamental human rights. However, to date, repression continues, plunging Nicaragua into an ever-deepening human rights crisis.