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Christians in Nicaragua are increasingly being silenced under the dictatorial rule of the co-presidents Daniel Ortega and his wife, Rosario Murillo.
Believers who raise their voices against the government over issues including human rights violations have faced surveillance, intimidation and imprisonment. Some even face exile and loss of citizenship. Meanwhile, churches and other Christian institutions (e.g. schools and charities) are deemed a threat to the regime. They have had assets seized, activities disrupted and banned, and buildings vandalised. Rather than be seen as a valuable part of the country’s fabric, many Christians are viewed as ‘destabilising agents’.
This growing suffocation of Christian freedoms goes back to 2018, when nationwide protests broke out against the government. This worsened following elections in 2021 and constitutional reform in 2025. Both have been used to make legal changes to further justify the crackdown on dissenting voices – and that includes further silencing the church.
As the largest Christian denomination in Nicaragua, Catholics are a primary target for the regime. Clergy face imprisonment, exile, house arrest, travel bans and legal threats. But anyone who speaks out against the government is especially vulnerable, and that includes Christians from other denominations (e.g. Pentecostals and Baptists). Some also face pressure to show political loyalty to avoid further repercussions.
"Those who preach the gospel without censorship – proclaiming Jesus’ love and the freedom the Holy Spirit brings – are exactly the ones they want to silence. The kind of Christianity rooted in Scripture, that dares to confront the brokenness of our country with the truth of the gospel, that’s the kind they label an enemy."
"Pastora", a woman who bravely refuses to be silenced by the authorities.
The situation in Nicaragua has changed very little. Even though the country fell two places from last year’s World Watch List, persecution remains difficult. Highly visible acts of repression and open confrontation with Nicaraguan Christians have become less frequent. Instead, the regime has intensified day-to-day pressure on Christians who refuse to demonstrate political loyalty. Believers – especially pastors and church leaders – now face more suffocating surveillance, threats to restrict or shut down church activities, and constant interference in their ministries. Christians worry that speaking out could cost them their legal status, their places of worship or even their ability to remain in the country.
Open Doors strengthens the church in Nicaragua amidst persecution, through livelihood support, legal assistance, persecution-survival training and leadership care.
Heavenly Father, give our sisters and brothers wisdom, courage and protection as they follow You in an increasingly hostile environment. Encourage those who’ve suffered loss and pain for their faith, provide for them, and heal their wounds. Soften the hearts of the regime and touch the hearts of the authorities as they monitor Christians. In these difficult times, strengthen Your church in Nicaragua and shine brightly through them. Amen.