EUA condemns violence at National Autonomous University of Nicaragua (UNAN)
20 July 2018
In the context of an intensifying revolt against Nicaragua’s president Daniel Ortega, the European University Association (EUA) is particularly troubled by assaults launched by security forces on the campus of the National Autonomous University of Nicaragua (UNAN) in Managua. Two students are reported to have been killed and several injured in these attacks. Observers state that “the Nicaraguan government [has] adopted a strategy of violent repression not seen in the country for years” (Amnesty International, 29 May 2018).
EUA condemns all forms of violence, including against education, as it weakens or obliterates academic freedom and has a devastating impact on research, teaching and access to education. In keeping with its endorsement of the Principles of State Responsibility to Protect Higher Education, EUA therefore calls on all actors to commit to safeguarding the freedom and safety of universities and their communities.
