U.S. Launches Investigation into Nicaragua's Human Rights

The Biden administration has initiated an investigation into alleged labor and human rights abuses by the Nicaraguan government, highlighting concerns over President Daniel Ortega's authoritarian rule. U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai announced that the probe, mandated under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, aims to assess how these abuses impact U.S. commerce and may lead to retaliatory measures. Allegations against Ortega's administration include forced labor, human trafficking, and politically motivated arrests, which watchdog groups claim harm workers and destabilize the region. This investigation coincides with International Human Rights Day, emphasizing the U.S.'s commitment to human rights protections globally. Nicaragua's trade surplus of approximately $3 billion with the U.S. complicates the situation, as the country is part of the Central America Free Trade Agreement. The investigation comes amid ongoing repression in Nicaragua, including proposed constitutional reforms to extend Ortega's power, leading to widespread international criticism.