Facing political turmoil since 2018, Nicaragua's deteriorating governance raises risks for travelers, prompting officials to warn against visits despite the country's allure of natural beauty and low-cost attractions.
**U.S. State Department Alerts Citizens Against Travel to Nicaragua Amid Rising Authoritarianism**
**U.S. State Department Alerts Citizens Against Travel to Nicaragua Amid Rising Authoritarianism**
In a recent advisory, U.S. officials urge Americans to think twice before traveling to Nicaragua due to increased authoritarianism and human rights concerns.
As political tensions continue to escalate in Nicaragua, the U.S. State Department is strongly advising Americans against traveling to the country. This cautionary move comes in light of the authoritarian regime that has been solidifying its power since political unrest began in 2018. Travelers are warned to reconsider their plans amidst the risks associated with arbitrary law enforcement, wrongful detentions, and limited healthcare access.
The advisory, which has categorized Nicaragua as a Level 3 travel risk since December, reflects growing concerns over the deteriorating human rights conditions under the government led by President Daniel Ortega and his wife, Rosario Murillo, co-president. Officials expressed alarm at recent positive travel media portrayals that overshadow the underlying issues.
During a briefing held on Friday, unnamed U.S. officials highlighted the potential of Nicaragua as a tourism destination, boasting of its stunning scenery, affordable prices, and outdoor activities like surfing and bird watching. However, they emphasized that this potential is severely undermined by the harsh realities of an oppressive political environment.
“While Nicaragua has much to offer, the severe human rights violations and strict governance pose significant risks for U.S. citizens and travelers alike,” remarked one official.
The country has been marked by unrest and protests, as citizens have vocally opposed Ortega's increasingly dictatorial leadership. The current advisory program aims not only to assist Americans in making informed decisions but also to ensure their safety amid Nicaragua's evolving political landscape.
The advisory, which has categorized Nicaragua as a Level 3 travel risk since December, reflects growing concerns over the deteriorating human rights conditions under the government led by President Daniel Ortega and his wife, Rosario Murillo, co-president. Officials expressed alarm at recent positive travel media portrayals that overshadow the underlying issues.
During a briefing held on Friday, unnamed U.S. officials highlighted the potential of Nicaragua as a tourism destination, boasting of its stunning scenery, affordable prices, and outdoor activities like surfing and bird watching. However, they emphasized that this potential is severely undermined by the harsh realities of an oppressive political environment.
“While Nicaragua has much to offer, the severe human rights violations and strict governance pose significant risks for U.S. citizens and travelers alike,” remarked one official.
The country has been marked by unrest and protests, as citizens have vocally opposed Ortega's increasingly dictatorial leadership. The current advisory program aims not only to assist Americans in making informed decisions but also to ensure their safety amid Nicaragua's evolving political landscape.
