Nicaragua is a unitary republic, and for administrative purposes, it is divided into 15 departments (departamentos) and two self-governing regions (autonomous communities) based on the Spanish model. The departments are then subdivided into 153 municipios (municipalities).
- Boaco
- Carazo
- Chinandega
- Chontales
- Estelí
- Granada
- Jinotega
- León
- Madriz
- Managua
- Masaya
- Matagalpa
- Nueva Segovia
- Rivas
- Río San Juan
- Región Autónoma del Atlántico Norte
- Región Autónoma del Atlántico Sur
Numbered departments of Nicaragua
Zelaya Department
In 1986, the new constitution established the Charter of Autonomy (limited self-government) for the former department of Zelaya, comprising the entire eastern half of the country. The department was divided into two autonomous regions (communities).
The Charter of Autonomy is largely based on the model used by Spain. The communities are governed by a Governor and a Regional Council. Defense, etc. is the responsibility of the Central Government in Managua.