On Wednesday, Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel accused the United States of enforcing a so-called "genocidal plan" against Cuba, referring to the long-standing economic embargo imposed over six decades ago.
The statement was shared via his social media accounts to coincide with the International Human Rights Day, a date when international organizations and island-based activists specifically highlighted the violations perpetrated by the Cuban regime itself.
"On Human Rights Day, we once again demand an end to the U.S.'s genocidal plan against Cuba: more than six decades of economic, financial, and commercial blockade aimed at starving and depriving the dignified Cuban people," Díaz-Canel asserted, echoing the official rhetoric that blames the embargo for the country's severe crisis.
Internal Turmoil and International Reports
The communist leader's remarks come amidst an extremely dire situation within the island, characterized by widespread blackouts, food shortages, a collapse of essential services, and growing social unrest. Just this week, several neighborhoods in Havana engaged in nighttime protests, with the government responding by cutting internet access and deploying police forces.
His message also starkly contrasts with numerous international reports documenting political repression, the existence of hundreds of political prisoners, and systematic restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly in Cuba, including arrests and judicial actions following the July 11, 2021 protests.
Activism and International Criticism
While Díaz-Canel discusses human rights, organizations such as Amnesty International, Prisoners Defenders, and the Cuban Observatory for Human Rights consistently highlight reports of arbitrary detentions, torture, trials lacking due process, institutional violence against female activists, and inhumane conditions in prisons and detention centers.
Numerous dissidents, artists, and families of political prisoners also used the occasion to demand the immediate release of those detained for political reasons and to denounce the rapidly deteriorating living conditions in the country.
A Recurrent Narrative Amid Economic Collapse
Pointing fingers at Washington has been a core narrative of the Cuban regime since 1962. Nonetheless, economists and analysts agree that the current crisis is largely due to the structural collapse of the internal model, the lack of substantial reforms, and the government's inability to manage the economy effectively.
Despite this, the Cuban president continued to present the embargo as the primary cause of the nation's predicament, steering clear of any mention of internal governance issues, repression, or the extensively documented human rights violations occurring within the island.
Understanding Cuba's Economic and Human Rights Challenges
What is the main accusation Díaz-Canel makes against the United States?
Díaz-Canel accuses the United States of enforcing a "genocidal plan" against Cuba through a long-standing economic embargo.
How does Díaz-Canel's statement contrast with the situation in Cuba?
His statement contrasts with the critical internal situation marked by blackouts, food shortages, and social unrest, as well as reports of political repression and human rights violations.
What do international organizations report about Cuba?
Organizations report arbitrary detentions, torture, trials without due process, and institutional violence, highlighting severe human rights violations.