Despite economic growth in Nicaragua, the gap between rich and poor is becoming bigger. Violence and organised crime are less prevalent than in neighboring countries, but are an ever increasing problem. This is particularly related to the emergence of youth gangs in cities and rising unemployment. Violence against women in intimate relationships is extremely widespread.
Nicaragua has been hit by several devastating natural disasters in recent decades, with the 1972 earthquake and Hurricane Mitch in 1998 being the most serious. The danger of new, devastating natural disasters increases with climate change.
Our work
Norwegian Church Aid works with national partners in Nicaragua, and our work is followed-up by our regional office in Guatemala. Since 2008, we have increased our efforts by hiring a local consultant in Managua.
Gender justice:
The promotion of women's rights and gender equality is the primary objective for our work in Nicaragua. Together with our partners, who are both women's organisations and church-based organisations, we are working to combat violence against women.
We also support efforts to increase women's political participation at both local and national levels. In addition, we work with various churches in the country to promote women's rights and participation.
Climate justice:
Norwegian Church Aid works with partner organisations in Nicaragua to ensure that local communities become less vulnerable to natural disasters. Work on climate change adaptation is especially aimed at women, and an overarching goal in this work is to promote women's participation and protection.
Our partners in Nicaragua have long experience working with communities’ having access to clean water. We work with local authorities so that they are held responsible for providing basic services to the population.
Coordination through the ACT Alliance
Norwegian Church Aid is a member of the ACT Alliance’s international network. We have regular meetings with other ACT members working in Nicaragua to coordinate our activities, enhance collaboration with local partners and develop joint plans for capacity building and disaster work.