Nicaragua - Mapping Digital Media

The development of digital media in Nicaragua is progressing alongside a return to repressive media policies and a clamping down on independent journalism by both the state and big business. This has reversed many of the gains for pluralism and free speech achieved during the political transition to a more democratic system in the 1990s. Against this backdrop, it is imperative that lawmakers take the initiative to end politicization in licensing, discretionary use of official advertising funds, and selective adherence to ownership and license restrictions. A new communications framework should also provide a clear and effective plan for digital switchover, new guarantees for regulatory independence, and measures to ensure affordability and access to digital services.