The decision to allocate European funds for the digitalization of Cuba's government has sparked significant political controversy in Eastern Europe. In Estonia, the debate escalated to the Parliament and the Government this week after news surfaced about a European Union-funded plan to invest €441,000 in digital equipment for Cuba, a nation governed by a communist regime known for systematic human rights violations.
As reported by ERR News, the project, spearheaded by Estonia's e-Governance Academy, led to intense discussions within the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Riigikogu. Many lawmakers openly questioned whether such support truly benefits the Cuban people or merely strengthens the regime's state apparatus.
Marko Mihkelson, chairman of the committee and member of the Reform Party, was among the most vocal critics. He found it unacceptable to rely on decisions made in 2016, when the EU adopted its current policy towards Cuba, without considering the drastically changed international context following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
Mihkelson emphasized that Havana has actively supported Moscow and even compared the Cuban regime to other authoritarian allies of Russia, such as North Korea or Iran.
"The intended impact of this project would not benefit the Cuban people but rather the regime itself," stated the legislator, expressing skepticism that digitalizing the state would open up society or genuinely improve citizens' access to public services.
The controversy intensified when Estonia's Foreign Minister, Margus Tsahkna, announced that Estonia will formally request the European Union to reassess its policy towards Cuba and increase pressure on Havana's government.
According to ERR News, the foreign minister recalled that Estonia has already changed its stance at the United Nations, ceasing to support resolutions urging the embargo's lift, citing reasons such as the crackdown following the July 11, 2021 protests and restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly.
Tsahkna also pointed out that the Cuban regime has strengthened its cooperation with Russia and Belarus, including in defense matters, which he believes should weigh more in Brussels' decisions. The minister indicated he would bring the issue to the upcoming EU foreign ministers' meeting scheduled for the end of January.
The roots of this discussion are closely linked to Spain, one of the main advocates of the "Cuba Digital" project. The Spanish government is allocating €2.3 million to this EU-funded initiative aimed at establishing a new data center and modernizing Cuba's technological infrastructure.
From Havana, the official narrative touts digitalization as a benefit for the citizens. However, critics both in and outside Europe warn about the risk of reinforcing the regime's control and surveillance mechanisms.
Implications of the EU's Investment in Cuba's Digitalization
Why is the EU investing in Cuba's digital infrastructure?
The EU's investment aims to improve Cuba's digital capabilities by funding new equipment and modernizing its technological infrastructure. However, this move has been controversial as it may inadvertently support the Cuban regime's control mechanisms.
What is Estonia's stance on the EU's policy towards Cuba?
Estonia has expressed strong opposition to the EU's current policy towards Cuba. The Estonian government is advocating for a reassessment of this policy, emphasizing increased pressure on Cuba's regime due to its alliances with authoritarian states and human rights violations.
How does Spain's involvement impact the "Cuba Digital" project?
Spain is a major supporter of the "Cuba Digital" project, contributing €2.3 million to the initiative. Spain's involvement is crucial in driving the project's goals of enhancing Cuba's digital infrastructure, although it raises concerns about bolstering the regime's surveillance capabilities.