Overview of Human Rights in Nicaragua

The Republic of Nicaragua is a constitutional democracy. Corruption, an unstable political situation, and impunity seriously affect the ability of the government to improve the human rights record. The judiciary, as well as the Supreme Electoral Council, are corrupt and highly politicized. Journalists and human rights activists are often harassed or killed for criticizing the government. Members of the police and security forces arbitrarily arrest, beat, and torture citizens. Unlawful killings by members of these forces have been reported. While the government did punish some offenders, the majority operate with impunity. Harsh detention and prison conditions continue. Incidences of violence against children, child labor, and child prostitution have increased in recent times. Discrimination against indigenous peoples is also a concern.

Human Development Index (HDI) Rank:

112th out of 177

Note: Human Development Index (HDI) is a composite index that measures the level of well-being of nations in the world. It uses factors such as poverty, literacy, life-expectancy, education, gross domestic product, and purchasing power parity to assess the average achievements in each nation. It has been used in the United Nation’s Human Development Report since 1993.