The Gender Observatory of Yo Sí Te Creo en Cuba (YSTCC) announced this Tuesday the confirmation of another feminicide, bringing the total number of women killed due to male violence in Cuba to 12 so far this year. The victim, identified as Melissa Vale Castillo, was attacked by her former partner and father of her two children on April 23 at her home in El Salao, Santiago de Cuba.
Tragic Crime Sparks More Questions Than Answers
Melissa was murdered in front of her young children, a brutal act that once again highlights the glaring lack of effective protection mechanisms for victims of gender violence in Cuba. The observatory is still gathering information about Melissa's age and reported that others were injured during the attack, though details about their condition have not been disclosed.
YSTCC expressed their condolences in a statement: "Our deepest sympathies go to Melissa's two very young children, her sister, other family members, and close friends."
Ongoing Impunity and Silence: A Persistent Pattern
This case was corroborated by community sources, independent media, and activists, thanks to the collaborative efforts of Yo Sí Te Creo en Cuba and the Gender Observatory Alas Tensas (OGAT). Both organizations have highlighted the underreporting of such crimes in Cuba, where the state neither publishes official statistics nor ensures transparency in judicial processes related to gender violence.
As of April 29, 2025, these observatories have confirmed 12 feminicides and are investigating six additional alerts in various provinces: Artemisa, Matanzas, Santiago de Cuba, Havana, Granma, and Camagüey.
Urgent Call to Break the Silence
YSTCC reiterated that reporting is not a crime and urged citizens to come forward with any cases of extreme gender violence. The observatory continues to gather information and provide safe channels for those wishing to report such incidents.
In a country where a comprehensive law against gender violence is still absent, independent activism has become the primary means of bringing attention to and supporting victims.
Understanding Feminicide in Cuba
What is the role of independent organizations in addressing feminicide in Cuba?
Independent organizations like Yo Sí Te Creo en Cuba and the Gender Observatory Alas Tensas play a crucial role in documenting cases, raising awareness, and providing support to victims of gender violence due to the absence of government transparency and official statistics.
Why is there an underreporting of feminicides in Cuba?
Underreporting is largely due to a lack of official data from the government, minimal transparency in judicial processes, and societal norms that may discourage reporting such crimes.
How are victims supported in the absence of legal protection?
In the absence of comprehensive legal protection, victims rely heavily on the support and advocacy provided by independent organizations and community networks that offer safe reporting channels and various forms of assistance.