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Resolution on the situation of human rights and democracy in Nicaragua – the case of Francisca Ramirez

2017/2563(RSP)

The European Parliament adopted a resolution on the situation of human rights and democracy in Nicaragua – the case of Francisca Ramirez.

The text adopted in plenary was tabled by the EPP, S&D, ECR, ALDE groups.

Members expressed their concern at the steadily deteriorating human rights situation in Nicaragua and deplored the attacks and acts of harassment committed by individuals, political forces and bodies linked to the State.

They urged the government to refrain from harassing and using acts of reprisal against Francisca Ramirez (Coordinator of the National Council for the Defence of Land, Lake and Sovereignty) and other human rights defenders for carrying out their legitimate work.

They called on the Nicaraguan Government to:

  • respect its international human rights obligations, in particular the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People, signed in 2008, and ILO Convention 169;
  • protect indigenous peoples’ lands from the impact of development megaprojects that affect the life-supporting capacity of their territories, placing indigenous communities in conflict scenarios;
  • fully respect democratic values, including separation of powers, and to restore the position of all political opposition parties by allowing critical voices within the political system and society in general.

Members recalled that the steps taken in violation of the judicial system that resulted in constitutional changes to remove presidential term limits, allowing Daniel Ortega to stay in power for years were illegal.

They called on the Nicaraguan authorities to restore the plurality of media.

Lastly, Members urged the EU to monitor the situation and, if necessary, to assess the potential measures to be taken. In this regard, they pointed out, in the light of the Association Agreement between the European Union and the countries of Central America, Nicaragua must be reminded of the need to respect the principles of the rule of law, democracy and human rights.