Nicaragua Bans Tourists from Bringing Bibles
The Nicaraguan government has allegedly implemented a ban on tourists bringing Bibles into the country, further intensifying its crackdown on religious activities. This measure, as reported by the regional transport company Thika Bus, also extends to newspapers, magazines, books, drones, and cameras at border checkpoints.
A spokesperson from El Salvador’s Tica Bus confirmed that passengers heading to Managua are not allowed to bring any Bibles or printed materials. Interestingly, a representative from their Honduras office mentioned that these restrictions have been in effect for over six months now.
Anna Lee Stangl, the advocacy director for a Christian organization, urged President Daniel Ortega to lift the ban “immediately.” She expressed concern over the government’s actions, stating, “The Nicaraguan government’s attempts to limit the entry of Bibles and other printed resources are deeply troubling in light of the ongoing repression.” Stangl called on the international community to find innovative ways to support and amplify the voices of Nicaraguans, both within the country and abroad.
This ban is set against the backdrop of Nicaragua’s ongoing restriction of religious freedom and civil rights, which has resulted in the closure of thousands of civil society organizations. Many religious groups have been subjected to surveillance, detention, and cancellations of public gatherings. The church has been one of the few institutions openly opposing Ortega’s government, particularly during the significant protests in 2018.
Since April 2018, over 5,000 independent civil organizations, including more than 1,300 religious groups, have lost their legal status. A report from the organization CSW identified 222 instances of religious persecution in 2024 alone, with 46 religious leaders detained.
Nicaragua, located in Central America, recently withdrew from the UN Human Rights Council after being criticized in a report that accused Ortega’s administration of systematically dismantling democracy and violating religious freedoms.
