Optimism sparks in challenging scenarios
In the Central American nation of Nicaragua, the political climate has taken a turn for the worse since the mass protests of 2018. Under the leadership of President Daniel Ortega, the government has intensified its control and repression of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and independent media.
Thousands of NGOs have been shut down, political opponents have been imprisoned or forced into exile, and press freedom has virtually disappeared in the country. Operating permits of foreign NGOs, particularly those from the US and Europe, have been canceled, severely restricting their activities.
The independent media and journalists face harassment, censorship, and exile, contributing to a climate where freedom of expression and civic participation are heavily curtailed. The Ortega administration passed constitutional reforms in late 2024 to extend Ortega’s presidential term and consolidate power, further contributing to this repressive political environment.
Regarding the Protestant Church Council (CEPAD) specifically, while search results do not mention CEPAD directly, the broader context indicates that religious organisations involved in civil society work, including Protestant groups, operate under strict surveillance and pressure. Given the widespread clampdown on NGOs and critical voices, it is highly plausible that CEPAD, as a prominent Protestant organisation engaged in social and community programs, faces significant operational challenges, restrictions, and potential government interference consistent with the treatment of other NGOs in Nicaragua.
Despite these challenges, CEPAD continues its work, supporting approximately 1,550 individuals in 420 families and 395 households in the project regions of Aguas Frías, La Laguna Seca, El Lizarco, Jucuapa Abajo, El Cacao Sur, and Jamaica y La Esperanza. The organisation has implemented agricultural and educational projects under difficult conditions, with financial support from the Church Circle.
Recent developments suggest that patience, persistence, and partnership trust can lead to hope under adverse conditions. For instance, the Attorney General's Office in Nicaragua allowed CEPAD to resume its activities, and the Church Circle transferred 3,000 euros for the conduct of theological and pastoral training on site by CEPAD. Moreover, CEPAD was given permission to use its building in Matagalpa for meetings again, after months of closure.
However, the new law in Nicaragua has already led to the closure of hundreds of organisations, and the political situation remains fragile. The space for civil society engagement is narrow, and NGOs, church groups, and independent media are under pressure. The country's political situation has significantly deteriorated since the protests against President Daniel Ortega in 2018, and many organisations have been forced to dissolve due to political pressure.
The international community, including organisations like the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, continues to express concern about human rights violations and the lack of guarantees for NGOs and political dissidents in Nicaragua. Despite the uncertain political climate, recent developments offer a glimmer of hope that organisations like CEPAD can continue their vital work under the current circumstances.
The Church Circle of Wuppertal has been partnered with CEPAD since the 1980s, focusing on the region of Matagalpa. The partnership trust built over decades is a testament to the resilience of organisations like CEPAD, and the hope they bring to the communities they serve.
- In light of the political repression in Nicaragua, many NGOs, including CEPAD, are facing significant operational challenges and potential government interference.
- Despite the closure of hundreds of organizations due to political pressure, educational and agricultural projects initiated by CEPAD continue to serve communities in areas like Aguas Frías and Matagalpa.
- The international community, motivated by concerns about human rights violations and lack of guarantees for NGOs in Nicaragua, continues to offer support to organizations like CEPAD.
- The resilience demonstrated by CEPAD, as demonstrated by its long-standing partnership with the Church Circle of Wuppertal, offers hope that organizations can continue to make a positive impact in the face of war, conflicts, and political instability.
