HRC58 - Iceland statement - Adoption of A/HRC/58/L.3: Promotion and Protection of Human Rights in Nicaragua
Human Rights Council – 58th session
General Comment on draft resolution L.3
Promotion and Protection of Human Rights in Nicaragua
Statement by Iceland
3 April 2025
Mr. President,
Iceland thanks the Core Group, comprised of States from the region, including those closely affected by the neighbouring situation, for presenting draft resolution L.3.
Since this resolution was last adopted, the human rights situation in Nicaragua has unfortunately deteriorated. The continued practice of targeting real or perceived opponents of the government by depriving them of their nationality, by forced deportation, asset confiscation and erasing all civilian records has now left almost 550 persons stateless. In addition, arbitrary detention, torture, and widespread closure of civic space continue to be documented.
Mr. President,
Arguments have been heard that the promotion and protection of human rights should only be advanced through dialogue and collaboration, and that mandates of the Human Rights Council should systematically be rejected if not supported by the country concerned.
In that context, we respectfully ask, Mr. President; if the country concerned refuses every attempt of dialogue or collaboration, what should this Council do? Together we have created this platform that has the responsibility to promote and protect human rights of all and that must be respected.
Therefore, it is of great concern that Nicaragua has decided to disengage from the Human Rights Council and all activities related to the Council. Nicaragua even refused to submit positions on their UPR recommendations, an unprecedented decision in this Council.