A scandalous case of political pressure was revealed at the international children's center "Artek", where students are obliged to express support for Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega. According to an investigation by the National Resistance Center, children are forced to write greeting cards demonstrating solidarity with the regime.
Ortega, the 78-year-old political leader who has continuously governed Nicaragua since 2007, is known for his authoritarian rule. His biography includes a first presidential term between 1985-1990, followed by a return to power in the second decade of the 21st century.
The international community accuses him of systematic human rights violations, suppression of the opposition, and restriction of media freedoms. The United States has imposed sanctions against his government, and Ukraine took additional economic restrictions in February 2021.
A key point in his foreign policy is unconditional support for Russia after the invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Nicaragua consistently abstains from condemning Russian actions in international resolutions, including the annexation of Ukrainian territories.
Forcing children to participate in political propaganda represents a direct violation of international norms for protecting childhood and basic human rights.