Data from the Cuban Observatory on Gender Equality, an entity affiliated with the Cuban government, reveals a troubling increase in violence against women in Las Tunas throughout 2024. A total of 22 gender-based incidents were recorded, marking an increase of two cases from the previous year and doubling the national average. This highlights the pressing need for effective responses to an issue that continues to harm, wound, and silence women.
In 2024, Cuban courts processed 230 sexual offense cases, equating to a rate of 5.42 per 100,000 women. Among these, 120 cases (2.83 per 100,000 women) involved sexual assault, while 110 represented other forms of sexual violence (2.59 per 100,000 women). The provinces with the highest numbers of sexual violence cases included Havana (51 cases, 6.32 rate), Las Tunas (22 cases, 10.85 rate), and Granma (21 cases, 6.63 rate).
A survey conducted by the official newspaper 26 indicated that 72% of respondents believe the current laws are either inadequate or too lenient. This underscores a critical need for legal reforms, expedited judicial processes, and sustained protections for victims.
The survey further revealed that 46% to 55% of those surveyed attribute the rise in cases to underreporting, driven by fear, distrust in institutions, and ongoing societal stigma. These factors contribute to a cycle of impunity where each act of violence perpetuates further silence.
Alarmingly, even within official forums such as the National Assembly of People's Power, there is acknowledgment that many women face re-victimization when they report abuse, often encountering questions like "What did you do?" This reflects entrenched institutional sexism and the normalization of domestic violence.
The media has also highlighted the cultural normalization of violence. Some survey responses indicated a persistent belief that "they ask for it," blaming victims and reinforcing a patriarchal view where women are seen as property rather than individuals with rights.
It's encouraging to note that discussions around such issues are now taking place, shedding light on topics previously overlooked. The existence of the Cuban Observatory on Gender Equality, which tracks femicides and gender-based violence trends, is also a positive development. There is a call for more localized data collection, at provincial and municipal levels, to better identify and prevent gender-based violence.
Las Tunas faces a serious and urgent problem. Machismo is not merely an opinion or tradition; it is a structural issue that legitimizes abuse and enables institutional silence. Gender violence is not a topic for debate; it must be confronted. In Cuba, much work remains to be done.
Independent platforms YoSíTe Creo en Cuba (YSTCC) and the Alas Tensas Gender Observatory (OGAT) confirmed a recent femicide in Havana, pushing the total number of gender-based killings of Cuban women to 22 so far in 2025. OGAT and YSTCC have recorded 22 femicides, one gender-motivated male murder, and two attempted femicides as of July 30. Additionally, they are investigating three alerts—in Santiago de Cuba, Villa Clara, and Camagüey.
In 2024, 76 women in Cuba were victims of femicide at the hands of partners, ex-partners, or others, according to a recent official report on extreme gender violence against women. The Cuban Observatory on Gender Equality reported this statistic, referring to them as women aged 15 and older who were "victims of intentional homicide (murder)" due to gender, without using the term femicide. This figure significantly exceeds the 56 femicides documented by independent feminist platforms in 2024, as reported in OGAT's annual publication.
Understanding Gender-Based Violence in Cuba
What is the current status of gender-based violence in Las Tunas?
In 2024, Las Tunas recorded 22 cases of gender-based violence, doubling the national average and highlighting a significant increase in such incidents.
How has the Cuban government addressed the issue of gender violence?
While the government has acknowledged the issue, many believe current laws are insufficient. There is a call for legal reforms and improved victim protection.
What role do cultural factors play in gender violence in Cuba?
Cultural normalization of violence and entrenched patriarchal views contribute to victim-blaming and the perpetuation of gender-based violence.