IOE condemns the arbitrary and illegal conviction of the former President of COSEP, José Adán Aguerri

The former President of the Nicaraguan employer organisation COSEP has been detained since 8 June 2021.

The International Organisation of Employers (IOE) expresses its deep concern about the arbitrary and illegal conviction of the former President of the Consejo Superior de la Empresa Privada (COSEP), Mr. José Adán Aguerri.

We repudiate in the strongest terms these arbitrary and illegal actions and demand the immediate release of the former President, as well as the President and Vice President –Michael Healy and Álvaro Vargas– of COSEP, the most representative employers' organisation in Nicaragua.

These actions are contrary, among other international treaties, to the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) fundamental Convention No. 87 on freedom of association, which was voluntarily ratified by Nicaragua in 1967. IOE will use all means at its disposal to denounce the actions of the Government of Nicaragua before various United Nations bodies, to preserve the physical integrity of business leaders, and to ensure respect for the autonomy of business organisations. We will also assess the use of measures provided for in the ILO’s Constitution.

About International Organisation of Employers

IOE is the largest private sector network in the world, encompassing more than 50 million companies in over 140 countries. For 100 years in social and employment policy debates, IOE is the sole representative of business at the International Labour Organization, the UN, G20, and other global forums. IOE is recognised for its unique expertise, advocacy, and influence as a powerful and balanced voice for business at the international level.

For media queries, please contact:

Jean Milligan, milligan(at)ioe-emp.com or +41 78 868 19 10