Nicaragua’s Return: A Deadly Risk for Former TPS Holders

Nicaraguan Community in Charlotte Grapples with Political turmoil and Uncertain Future

Charlotte, NC – Nicaraguans residing in Charlotte, North Carolina, are expressing deep concern and anxiety over escalating political instability in their homeland, coupled with increasingly restrictive government actions impacting their ability to return or even maintain citizenship.The situation is leaving many feeling caught between two worlds,with limited options for long-term stability.

Recent reports highlight a growing climate of fear within nicaragua, fueled by targeted violence against political opponents and their families. This insecurity is a primary driver for Nicaraguans seeking refuge abroad, but even that refuge is becoming fraught with uncertainty.

“It is indeed not a safe place. Many leaders have been killed, and thus, their families,” explained one Nicaraguan currently living in the Charlotte area, who requested anonymity due to safety concerns. “In addition, it is indeed a country where gay people are not accepted much, and this is my case.”

The Ortega regime has reportedly begun revoking the nationality of Nicaraguan citizens, frequently enough upon their arrival at airports attempting to return home. individuals with valid travel plans are being denied entry, effectively rendering them stateless.

“They take a Charlotte flight to Miami, and in Miami, when they want to board the flight to Managua, they are told that they cannot board the flight because they cannot enter the country,” recounted a Nicaraguan woman, also requesting anonymity, who shared stories of friends and family impacted by the policy. “It is worrying and tough because we feel like we are neither from here or there.”

This practice is exacerbating the already precarious situation for Nicaraguan exiles, many of whom have built lives and families outside the country but maintain strong ties to their homeland. The inability to return, coupled with the fear of persecution, creates a profound sense of displacement.

While Temporary Protected Status (TPS) offers some temporary relief to a portion of the Nicaraguan community in the US, advocates emphasize it is not a long-term solution.

“TPS is a partial relief for a part of the community,” stated García Fogarty, a representative from COMUNICA, a local organization supporting Nicaraguan immigrants.”In the long term, integral immigration reform is needed for all immigrants, but in the short term, we ask to defend the continuity of the TPS.”

Evergreen Insights: The Broader Context of Nicaraguan Migration

The current crisis is rooted in a long history of political instability and authoritarian rule in Nicaragua. The Sandinista National Liberation Front (FSLN), led by President Daniel Ortega, has been in power for extended periods, frequently enough marked by repression of dissent and erosion of democratic institutions.

The surge in Nicaraguan migration to the United States, and especially to cities like Charlotte, reflects a broader trend of Central American migration driven by violence, poverty, and political persecution. The revocation of nationality is a particularly alarming tactic, reminiscent of past practices used to silence opposition and control populations.

Looking Ahead:

The situation for Nicaraguans both within the country and abroad remains deeply uncertain. Advocates are calling for increased international pressure on the Ortega regime to respect human rights and restore democratic governance. In the United States, the focus is on maintaining TPS for Nicaraguan beneficiaries and pushing for complete immigration reform that provides a pathway to permanent residency for those fleeing persecution and seeking a stable future.

For more information on COMUNICA and their work supporting the Nicaraguan community,visit their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/COMUNICA.NC.

What legal options are available to Nicaraguan TPS holders facing return in 2025, beyond seeking asylum?

The End of TPS and the Looming Crisis

For decades, Nicaraguans have sought refuge in the United States due to political instability, economic hardship, and natural disasters. The Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program offered a lifeline, allowing them to live and work legally. though, the recent termination of TPS for Nicaragua, effective in 2025, presents a harrowing dilemma for thousands: return to a country increasingly recognized as dangerous, or face deportation. This article examines the risks facing former Nicaraguan TPS holders, the current conditions in Nicaragua, and available options.

Understanding the TPS Program & Its Termination

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is granted to nationals of designated countries experiencing exceptional and temporary conditions. Nicaragua was initially designated for TPS in 1999 following Hurricane Mitch. Renewals continued due to ongoing political and economic turmoil. The Trump governance attempted to end TPS for nicaragua in 2018, citing improved conditions. Legal challenges delayed the termination,but the Biden administration has largely upheld the decision,setting the end date for July 2025.

This termination impacts an estimated 4,000 Nicaraguans currently holding TPS status, and possibly many more family members. The core issue isn’t simply returning to Nicaragua; it’s returning to a nation demonstrably less stable and safe than when they initially fled.

The Deteriorating Situation in Nicaragua: Why Return is Risky

The Ortega regime’s increasingly authoritarian rule has created a climate of fear and repression. Human rights organizations consistently report widespread abuses, making returning to Nicaragua a dangerous proposition.

Political Persecution: Opposition leaders, journalists, and activists face arbitrary arrest, detention, and prosecution. The crackdown on dissent has intensified in recent years.

Economic Collapse: Nicaragua’s economy is struggling,wiht high unemployment and limited opportunities.This creates a challenging surroundings for returnees,particularly those who have spent years building lives in the US.

Human Rights Violations: Reports from organizations like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch detail extrajudicial killings, torture, and enforced disappearances.

Lack of Due Process: The judicial system is widely considered to be politically compromised, offering little protection for individuals targeted by the government.

Increased Violence: While not experiencing widespread armed conflict, nicaragua has seen a rise in politically motivated violence and intimidation.

These factors combine to create a situation where Nicaraguan returnees are at notable risk of persecution,violence,and economic hardship. The term “Nicaragua safety” is increasingly questioned by international observers.

Real-World Examples & Case Studies

Several documented cases highlight the dangers facing returnees. While specific names are withheld to protect individuals, patterns emerge:

Case 1: The Activist: A former TPS holder who returned voluntarily in 2023 after losing a legal challenge to the TPS termination was immediatly placed under surveillance and subjected to harassment by government officials due to past involvement in pro-democracy movements.

Case 2: The Journalist: A journalist who returned to nicaragua after losing TPS status was arrested on fabricated charges and remains in detention.

Case 3: The Business Owner: A small business owner who attempted to re-establish their livelihood in Nicaragua faced extortion and threats from local authorities.

These are just a few examples illustrating the very real dangers faced by those forced to return. The situation is further complicated by the lack of reliable support systems for returnees within Nicaragua.

Legal Options and Resources for Nicaraguan TPS Holders

Despite the bleak outlook, some legal avenues and resources may be available to Nicaraguan immigrants.

Asylum Claims: Individuals with a credible fear of persecution may be eligible to apply for asylum in the US,even after losing TPS status. This requires demonstrating a well-founded fear of future persecution based on race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion.

Withholding of Removal: This offers protection to individuals who would face persecution if returned to Nicaragua. The standard of proof is higher than for asylum.

Convention Against Torture (CAT) Protection: Individuals who face torture in Nicaragua may be eligible for protection under the CAT.

Legal Representation: Seeking legal counsel from an experienced immigration attorney is crucial. Organizations like the National immigration Law Center (NILC) and local legal aid societies can provide assistance.

Community Support: Several organizations offer support services to Nicaraguan immigrants, including legal assistance, advocacy, and mental health services.(See “Resources” section below).

Navigating the Challenges: Practical Tips

For those facing return,or assisting those who are,consider these practical steps:

1. Document Everything: Keep detailed records of any threats,harassment,or persecution experienced in nicaragua.
2. Seek Legal Advice Immediately: Don’t delay in consulting with an immigration attorney.
3. Connect with Support Networks: Reach out to community organizations and advocacy groups for assistance.
4. Prepare for Economic Hardship: The economic situation in Nicaragua is challenging. Develop a realistic plan for financial survival.
5. Prioritize Safety: If returning, take steps to minimize risk, such as avoiding political activities and maintaining a low profile.

Resources for Nicaraguan TPS Holders