Council extends restrictive measures for a further year

The Council today prolonged its restrictive measures in view of the situation in Nicaragua for an additional year, until 15 October 2025.

The restrictive measures currently in place apply to a total of 21 persons and 3 entities. Those designated are subject to an asset freeze and EU citizens and companies are forbidden from making funds available to them. Natural persons are additionally subject to a travel ban, which prevents them from entering or transiting through EU territories.

The sanctions regime was first introduced in October 2019 to address Nicaragua’s deteriorating political and social situation, after the Council had repeatedly expressed its concern about the continuing deterioration of human rights, democracy and the rule of law in the country. The Council reviews the restrictive measures in place annually.

The EU reiterates its call for fundamental freedoms to be restored in Nicaragua, the release of all remaining political prisoners, and the return of international human rights organisations. The EU also stresses the need to put an end to restrictions on civic space and respect the right to dissent.

The EU reaffirms its continued commitment to the Nicaraguan people and to defending democracy, the rule of law and human rights. The current political crisis in Nicaragua should be resolved through genuine dialogue between the government and opposition.