Peru’s Path Forward: Navigating Political, Economic, and Global Dynamics

Juan Lorenzo Holmann

  • Nicaragua

Juan Lorenzo Holmann is the general manager of La Prensa. Founded in 1926 by his grandfather, La Prensa is the oldest newspaper in Nicaragua and one of the oldest in Central America, recognized for its commitment to freedom and democracy.

In August 2021, under Holmann’s management, La Prensa faced significant challenges when the Nicaraguan government denied the newspaper access to printing supplies, leading to a police raid on its newsroom. Holmann was subsequently arrested and sentenced to nine years in prison in March 2022.

During his incarceration, Holmann was recognized for his commitment to press freedom, serving as the regional vice president of the Inter-American Press Association (IAPA). In October 2021, while still imprisoned, he was awarded the Grand Prize for Freedom of the Press by IAPA and was re-elected as vice president for a second term in October 2022.

On February 9, 2023, after spending approximately 18 months in detention, Holmann was among 222 political prisoners released and deported by Nicaraguan authorities. He was forced into exile, stripped of his Nicaraguan citizenship, and had his properties and investments confiscated.

Now residing in the United States, Holmann continues to lead La Prensa from exile, ensuring its mission endures through digital publication.

Holmann was an event speaker at the Dialogue.

Events

A Roadmap to Protect Independent Journalism in Repressive Countries

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