LASA strongly condemns the arrest of the prominent Nicaraguan academic Oscar René Vargas and his imprisonment in the infamous El Chipote prison outside of Managua. Vargas, considered the dean of Nicaraguan sociology, is one of the country’s most internationally renowned intellectuals. A former member of LASA, he is the author of 36 books and co-author of another 20 on Nicaragua history, economics, politics and society as well as several books on contemporary Central American, Latin American, and world affairs. In addition, he has published over 1,000 articles and commentaries.
About LASA
The Latin American Studies Association (LASA) is the largest professional association in the world for individuals and institutions engaged in the study of Latin America. With over 13,000 members, over 60% of whom reside outside the United States, LASA is the one association that brings together experts on Latin America from all disciplines and diverse occupational endeavors, across the globe. LASA's mission is to foster intellectual discussion, research, and teaching on Latin America, the Caribbean, and its people throughout the Americas, promote the interests of its diverse membership, and encourage civic engagement through network building and public debate.
If you wish to interview a LASA Executive Council member, you can contact the LASA communications office at (412) 648-7929 or send an email to lasa@lasaweb.org.