At the 17th BRICS Summit, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel criticized the United States for what he described as the "shameful persecution" of Cuban medical brigades, which generate significant revenue for his government. He urged member countries of the bloc to support a new international order. "For over six decades, Cuba has pursued a policy of training and collaborating with healthcare professionals for the Third World. In recent years, the Henry Reeve Medical Brigade has provided exemplary service in disaster-stricken areas. Yet, instead of being celebrated, these efforts by a small nation are disgracefully targeted by the world's largest economic power," Díaz-Canel stated in Rio de Janeiro.
This accusation is part of an ongoing narrative by Cuban officials, portraying the medical collaboration program as a humanitarian gesture, while downplaying the fact that these missions are a major revenue source for the regime, bringing in millions annually from the labor of thousands of professionals.
The Cuban medical mission model has faced significant scrutiny from human rights organizations and numerous testimonials from the professionals involved. Reports reveal that the Cuban government retains a large portion of the salaries paid by host countries, seizes passports, withholds wages, and closely monitors the medical staff sent abroad.
Díaz-Canel's remarks come amid increasing U.S. pressure on countries with contracts for Cuban medical brigades. In a recent interview on Democracy Now!, Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernández de Cossío attempted to downplay allegations of forced labor, claiming that the state-run program is "very similar" to those of UN agencies and European countries. He further accused Secretary of State Marco Rubio of lying about the situation, asserting that Cuban doctors "receive their full salary in Cuba" along with a "decent stipend" in their host country, which Fernández claims "enhances their standard of living."
The rhetoric of "South-South cooperation" often repeated at events like the BRICS Summit aims to mask the reality of a centralized system that exploits the prestige of healthcare professionals while restricting their freedom of movement, expression, and employment. Despite the Cuban government's attempts to justify its model to the international community, increasing numbers of voices recognize it as a veiled form of exploitation.
Díaz-Canel's visit to Brazil, accompanied by Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez and other high-ranking officials, represents a diplomatic effort to secure financial and political support at a time when the Cuban economy is severely stalled, and the regime is in desperate need of new income sources.
Cuban Medical Brigades and International Controversy
Why does the U.S. target Cuban medical brigades?
The U.S. targets Cuban medical brigades because it views them as a major source of income for the Cuban regime and criticizes the conditions under which Cuban doctors work abroad, alleging human rights abuses.
What are the main criticisms of Cuba's medical missions?
Critics argue that the Cuban government retains a large portion of the doctors' salaries, restricts their freedom, and monitors their activities, which amounts to exploitation and violates their human rights.
How does Cuba defend its medical collaboration program?
Cuba defends its program by asserting that it provides vital healthcare services to underserved regions and claims that the financial arrangements are fair and similar to international standards.
What role does the Henry Reeve Medical Brigade play?
The Henry Reeve Medical Brigade is known for its rapid deployment to disaster areas, providing emergency healthcare services and demonstrating Cuba's commitment to international medical cooperation.