“The SCA notes that the outcome report of Nicaragua’s review under the Universal Periodic Review of May 2014 recommends that Nicaragua guarantee a safe and enabling environment for journalists and human rights defenders and ensure that all cases of attacks against them are investigated by independent and impartial bodies. 

The SCA notes that the PDDH has indicated that it has not received any complaints about attacks against human rights defenders and other human rights violations. 

The SCA encourages the PDDH to provide information about the actions it has taken in relation to the protection of human rights defenders and reports of attacks against these individuals. 

An NHRI’s mandate should be interpreted in a broad, liberal and purposive manner to promote a progressive definition of human rights which includes all rights set out in international, regional and domestic instruments. NHRIs are expected to promote and ensure respect for all human rights, democratic principles and the strengthening of the rule of law in all circumstances, and without exception. Where serious violations of human rights are imminent, NHRIs are expected to conduct themselves with a heightened level of vigilance and independence.”