Statement from AJCU on UCA Nicaragua

The Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities (AJCU) stands in solidarity with our sister institution in Managua, the Jesuit University of Central America. The recent actions of the Nicaraguan government are both unjust and punitive: a blatant violation of academic freedom.

The repressive strategies of this regime are those of a government that has lost its legitimacy and rightfully fears the judgement of the Nicaraguan people and the international community. These actions are those of a government out of touch with its citizens, civil society, and religious institutions.

We extend our support to the Jesuits, the faculty, students and staff who have been falsely accused of trumped-up violations of the law. With the Central American Province of the Society of Jesus, we call on this government to reverse its decisions and cease its repression of the University and those who are advocating for a public dialogue regarding the nation’s future.

This statement, issued yesterday by the AJCU, was signed by Jesuit presidents, including President LeMura. Coverage has been widespread including this story from the Vatican News. This newsletter from the International Association of Jesuit Universities provides an overview and other statements about the situation.