Nicaragua - September 2024

The National Assembly passed executive-initiated amendments to the criminal code and legislation on cybercrime and financial analysis. The amendments further criminalize dissidence, enabling the prosecution of vaguely-described illicit acts such as crimes against national security and public administration, including when committed through social media and by nationals and foreigners outside Nicaraguan territory. The amendments broaden who can be prosecuted, including people who “facilitate” crimes. Harsher prison sentences and the confiscation of assets were also introduced. Experts note the express criminalization of conduct on social media could induce a chilling effect, which will be compounded by the threat of ‘transnational’ prosecutions. Notably, an amendment to the Financial Analysis Unit bill will scrutinize citizens living abroad who send remittances to Nicaraguan beneficiaries and the beneficiaries themselves, a circumstance that particularly imperils family members of exiled critics of the regime.

Sources:  Asamblea Nacional de Nicaragua (1), Asamblea Nacional de Nicaragua (2), El Pais (1), El País (2), Infobae