U.S. Investigates Human Rights and Labor Abuses in Nicaragua

The Biden administration has launched a trade probe into the Ortega-Murillo regime, citing credible reports of repression and violations impacting commerce.

The U.S. Trade Representative has initiated a Section 301 investigation into Nicaragua’s alleged labor and human rights abuses under the Ortega-Murillo government.
The probe will examine violations such as politically motivated arrests, forced labor, human trafficking, and suppression of collective bargaining rights.
The investigation could lead to trade penalties, including tariffs or suspension from the CAFTA-DR free trade agreement, which is critical to Nicaragua's economy.
The move coincides with International Human Rights Day and follows years of escalating authoritarian measures by the Ortega regime, including constitutional reforms to consolidate power.
Nicaragua’s trade relationship with the U.S. is significant, with over half of its exports destined for the American market.