Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican Secretary of State, expressed the Holy See’s concern about Nicaragua’s measures affecting religious freedom during his address at the United Nations General Assembly. The cardinal emphasized that the Vatican is closely monitoring the situation and is particularly worried about the actions taken against church personnel and institutions, which directly impact religious freedom. He hopes that this freedom, along with other fundamental rights, will be adequately protected.
The Vatican’s concerns are rooted in the Nicaraguan government’s actions since 2018, including expelling religious congregations, closing Catholic institutions, and arresting numerous priests. A report by Martha Patricia Molina states that as of July 2024, 143 priests, almost a quarter of the Nicaraguan clergy, have been expelled. Several bishops have also been forced to leave the country or exiled.
One notable case is that of Bishop Rolando Álvarez, who was sentenced to 26 years in prison and stripped of his Nicaraguan nationality in February 2023. The regime accused him of being a “traitor to the homeland.” However, in January 2024, Bishop Álvarez was deported to the Vatican along with 15 priests, 2 seminarians, and Bishop Isidoro Mora. The Holy See remains open to respectful dialogue with Nicaraguan authorities to resolve difficulties and promote peace, and harmony.