January 11, 2022

EU imposes Nicaragua-related sanctions upon 7 individuals and 3 entities for serious human rights violations related to fraudulent elections

On January 10, 2022, the European Council announced additional Nicaragua-related sanctions imposed upon 7 individuals and 3 entities, including the family members of President Daniel Ortega and Vice-President Rosario Murillo, Nicaragua’s National Police and Supreme Electoral Council, and the Nicaraguan Institute of Telecommunications and Postal Services, among others.  The listed parties were designated for committing serious human right violations that include the repression of civil society and support for the fraudulent presidential and parliamentary elections that took place on November 7, 2021 in Nicaragua that deprived the Nicaraguan people of their freedom of expression and right to vote in a fair and transparent election.

The restrictive measures were imposed pursuant to Council Implementing Regulation (EU) 2022/22, implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/1716 concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Nicaragua, and include asset freezes and travel bans that prevent sanctioned individuals from entering or transiting through EU territories.  The restrictive measures also prohibit EU citizens and companies from making funds available to sanctioned parties.   

European Council Press Release | Council Implementing Regulation (EU) 2022/22