TLDR:
The Nicaragua Solidarity Campaign Action Group (NSCAG) is a UK-based organization that has supported Nicaragua for nearly 50 years by opposing foreign interference, promoting social and economic progress, and building ties through unions, education exchanges, events, and advocacy. Backed largely by grassroots and union support, it works to share Nicaragua’s perspective and strengthen international solidarity.
NSCAG: Standing with Nicaragua
In London's bustling streets, a group has been building strong ties between the UK and Nicaragua for almost 50 years. The Nicaragua Solidarity Campaign Action Group, or NSCAG, started over 47 years ago with its sister group, the Nicaragua Solidarity Campaign. They've stuck together through big changes in politics, both in Nicaragua and around the world. Their main goal? To back the people of Nicaragua as they work toward a fairer life.
Core Goals and Beliefs
NSCAG pushes for a Nicaragua that's fair in social, economic, and environmental ways. They want no outside meddling in the country's affairs. Solidarity, for them, isn't just help from one side—it's about sharing ideas, friendships, and fights against unfairness. They stand up for Nicaragua's right to run its own show and live without threats.
Fighting Against Outside Pressure
The group speaks out against illegal sanctions and attacks, especially from the US. For example, they have highlighted how US sanctions continue despite Nicaragua's progress, and they've called out threats like proposed 100% tariffs. They also push back on any moves to weaken Nicaragua's elected leaders. NSCAG highlights wins like cutting poverty, boosting unions and community businesses, and leading in gender equality—Nicaragua ranks 6th globally according to the World Economic Forum, ahead of the UK and US.
Building Bridges Through Activities
NSCAG does a mix of things to spread the word and help out. They teach people in the UK about what's really going on in Nicaragua, especially through unions. This includes sending money, political support, and encouragement to groups there.
Exchanges and Visits
One big part of their work is setting up trips and talks. They team up with the National Education Union in the UK and Nicaragua's teachers' union, ANDEN. UK teachers went to Nicaragua in 2017, 2022, and 2024. Nicaraguan teachers visited the UK in 2023. These swaps share tips and build real connections between teachers. Another example includes a 2024 delegation of UK Spanish language teachers who visited Nicaragua from August 8 to 20 to strengthen trade union solidarity.
Sharing Stories and News
NSCAG gets info out through websites, papers, updates, social posts, videos, online talks, and a monthly email. They focus on views straight from their Nicaraguan friends. This gives a true picture of the country's ups and downs. Recent pieces include stories on cultural events like "Mayo Ya" celebrations on the Caribbean Coast, and personal accounts from visitors showing Nicaragua as a caring country rather than what's often shown in the press.
Events and Gatherings
They run events to get people talking, like online sessions on key issues. For instance, they hosted or joined webinars such as one in September 2025 with Nicaraguan foreign minister Valdrack Jaentschke speaking on "Resistance, resilience and internationalism: Nicaragua’s path out of poverty," held both in person and online. NSCAG also joins forces with the Nicaragua Solidarity Coalition for meetings. Each year, they take part in the Latin America Conference with groups supporting Cuba and Venezuela. This helps link up bigger efforts across the region.
Helpful Resources
The group puts out guides on their partner groups and the ongoing links between the UK and Nicaragua. These tools help folks learn more. They've also shared reports on topics like health improvements, where Nicaragua has boosted its health budget significantly since 2006, and historical wins like the 1980 Literacy Crusade that earned UNESCO praise.
Strong Ties and Partners
NSCAG's power comes from its wide network. They work closely with Nicaraguan unions, co-ops, and community groups. Their link with NEU and ANDEN shows this well. They also connect with solidarity efforts for Cuba and Venezuela, plus the international Nicaragua Solidarity Coalition. Recent work includes joining statements and evidence submissions to challenge unfair reports on Nicaragua.
Who Runs NSCAG?
With over 150 people as members, 11 national unions, and about 150 local branches, NSCAG is member-led. They hold a yearly meeting to pick leaders who handle day-to-day stuff. It's set up as a company in England and Wales, number 04568098. Their office is at Space 4, 113-115 Fonthill Road, London N4 3HH.
Funding and Support
Most money comes from union fees and personal gifts. This shows how grassroots it is. If you would like to support their work, they would appreciate your donation. You can also become a member or volunteer if you want to get involved more.
Why It Matters Today
In tough global times, NSCAG shows how sticking together can make a difference. They fight outside interference and cheer Nicaragua's steps forward—like advances in maternal health, community tourism, and gender equity. It's a way of showing respect and working side by side.
How to get in touch with NSCAG
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