Fleeing poverty and persecution, Nicaraguans seek better lives

The Latin American country’s problems are no longer just political as it falls into the worst economic slump in three decades.

A year ago, protests against planned welfare cuts began in Nicaragua, but the government responded by targeting journalists and rights groups.

Now, street protests have been effectively banned and the government is firmly in control, but the country’s economy has ground to a halt in the meantime.

Between the government repression and lack of jobs, thousands of Nicaraguans are seeking out a better life abroad.

Al Jazeera’s John Holman reports.