Independent feminist groups, Alas Tensas and Yo Sí Te Creo en Cuba, have verified the occurrence of two additional femicides, pushing the number of such crimes in Cuba this year to 15.
The tragic victims, Yarisleidis Saavedra Hernández and Maylén Fernández Soriano, both aged 26, were killed on the same day, Monday, April 7, in different regions of the country.
In the case of Yarisleidis, she was murdered by her father at their home in Las Maravillas, San Juan y Martínez, Pinar del Río. After committing the heinous act, the perpetrator took his own life. Observatories have classified this incident as a "familial femicide with distinct signs of machismo-driven violence."
The organization extended its heartfelt condolences to the daughter Yarisleidis left behind, stating, "and to the entire family mourning the loss of two loved ones, now burdened by the weight of violence."
Alas Tensas cautioned on Facebook that such a crime, where a father kills his daughter, is a "rare type" and linked it to the societal decline caused by Cuba's ongoing humanitarian crisis, which they argue is endless.
The second incident took place in the town of San Juan, Jesús Menéndez municipality, Las Tunas. Maylén Fernández Soriano was murdered by her partner in front of their young son.
"In dire conditions, Maylén was taken to the hospital on an ox cart while still clinging to life, but she succumbed to her injuries before arrival," the report states.
These cases add to the 13 femicides already recorded in the first quarter, with six in January, one in February, and six in March.
In 2025, 48 femicides were reported in Cuba, with a staggering 83.3% committed by current or former partners of the victims.
Understanding the Rising Femicide Issue in Cuba
What are the main contributing factors to femicide in Cuba?
The increase in femicide in Cuba is often attributed to societal decline and the ongoing humanitarian crisis, which exacerbate domestic violence and machismo-driven aggression.
How are independent feminist groups addressing the issue?
Groups like Alas Tensas and Yo Sí Te Creo in Cuba are actively monitoring and documenting femicide cases, raising awareness, and advocating for systemic changes to protect women's rights and lives.
What measures are needed to prevent future femicides in Cuba?
Preventing future femicides requires comprehensive legal reforms, increased support services for victims, public awareness campaigns, and a cultural shift towards gender equality and non-violence.