Esteemed Spanish singer-songwriter Alejandro Sanz has thrown his support behind the young Cubans spearheading recent protests against the hike in mobile data internet tariffs announced by the Empresa de Telecomunicaciones de Cuba S.A (ETECSA). On his official X account, Sanz shared a message of encouragement and admiration: "The future of a nation that still dreams awake beats in the voices of Cuban youth."
Sanz's words come at a time of mounting tension in Cuba, where university students across the country have initiated a call for a teaching strike to oppose the increase in tariffs and the dollarization of these services on the island. The protest, which has been gaining traction and visibility on social media and in independent and international press, is predominantly led by young people demanding fair prices for connection services.
With his message, Alejandro Sanz reiterates his commitment to human rights and freedom in Cuba, highlighting the symbolic and political power of youth as a catalyst for change. His words not only bolster the spirits of those protesting on the island but also amplify the cause of thousands of Cubans dreaming of a freer, fairer, and more connected Cuba on the global stage.
A Dedicated Advocate for Cuban Causes
This isn't the first time Alejandro Sanz has publicly supported the Cuban populace. In 2022, the singer delivered harsh criticism to Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel following the 11J arrests and crackdowns, posting: “Count to four and you’re out, Díaz-Canel.” Earlier, in 2021, he had labeled the Cuban regime as a dictatorship unworthy of the term revolution. His consistent support has been praised by many Cubans who see him as an international voice standing in solidarity with the island's social causes.
University Protests Against ETECSA's "Tariff Blow"
Since ETECSA announced its new measures on May 30, students from universities in Havana, Villa Clara, Santiago de Cuba, Holguín, and other provinces have openly criticized the new connectivity prices in Cuba. The youth argue that these measures contradict socialism, as they cater solely to the interests of a monopoly—the only telecommunications company in Cuba—and are deeply unpopular, forcing Cubans to rely on international top-ups since the extra packages in Cuban pesos are laughable compared to the island’s wages.
While students are calling for a teaching strike, the Cuban dictatorship has responded by urging "closing ranks" against the youth protests, labeling them as provocations orchestrated by dissidents and opposition forces. Government supporters and official media have dismissed the students' statements as false, despite their clear legitimacy.
Students have reiterated their rejection of these tactics, even to international media, declaring they will continue to raise their voices despite threats from state security, political organizations, and even the administrators and professors of their universities.
Insights into Cuba's Youth-Led Protests
Why are Cuban youth protesting ETECSA's tariff increase?
Young Cubans are protesting because they view the increased tariffs as exploitative, benefiting the monopoly held by ETECSA, and not aligned with socialist principles. The new prices force reliance on foreign remittances, which are unsustainable given local incomes.
How has Alejandro Sanz supported the Cuban protests?
Alejandro Sanz has publicly voiced his support for the young Cuban protesters, expressing admiration for their role in shaping the future of the nation and amplifying their cause internationally through his social media platforms.