Rumors have swirled around the possible withdrawal of Cuban medical professionals from Belize after a video circulated on social media. The footage suggested that personal belongings of the Cuban Medical Brigade members in Belize were being sent back to Cuba, sparking speculation about a gradual exit at a time when the program's future is under negotiation.
The controversy began on August 26 when Wil Maheia, an activist with the People's National Party (PNP), posted a video from the airport. He pointed out the movement of boxes linked to Cuban doctors, as reported by 7 News Belize.
The following day, Greater Belize Media clarified that Maheia claimed the boxes contained the personal effects of the doctors, which were supposedly being returned to Cuba.
Government Denies Allegations of Gradual Withdrawal
The images fueled suspicions about a potential phased departure of Cuban professionals, especially given that the Belizean government is in talks about the brigade's future and exploring ways to strengthen their healthcare workforce.
However, Kevin Bernard, the Minister of Health and Wellness, dismissed these interpretations. He emphasized that the government is not systematically sending Cuban doctors back home.
"It's unfortunate to see someone take things out of context. The Cubans here in Belize travel on vacations every year, at different times. Not all can vacation simultaneously," Bernard explained, as quoted by Caribbean National Weekly.
The minister further stated that it is common for these professionals to take belongings to their families in Cuba during these trips and criticized Maheia's publication as "irresponsible."
"These individuals are currently working within our system," Bernard insisted, reiterating that "it is not true that we are sending Cubans back one by one."
Uncertain Future for the Cuban Medical Brigade
Despite Bernard's denials, the government cannot guarantee the brigade's continuation. He acknowledged ongoing diplomatic discussions between Belize and Cuba to determine the program's future.
Caribbean National Weekly noted that Bernard could not categorically confirm the brigade's permanence, amidst U.S. pressure against Cuban medical missions. The U.S. State Department views these missions as "forced labor" and has urged regional governments to reassess their agreements with Havana. Meanwhile, Belize has praised the Cuban professionals' contributions to its healthcare system.
The uncertainty may soon be resolved. Belizean authorities aim to reach a decision before the end of September, with the Cabinet set to review potential solutions from the negotiations.
"For the benefit of the Cuban Brigade, who also seek assurances, we must ensure a friendly resolution to this matter," Bernard stated.
In the meantime, Cuban professionals continue to work within Belize's public health system, where they help alleviate personnel shortages, acknowledged by local authorities.
This controversy also unfolds against a backdrop of declining Cuban missions in other regional countries. Jamaica ended its agreement with Cuba in March 2026, disbanding a brigade of 277 professionals, while Honduras also concluded its program that year under U.S. pressure.
Key Questions on Cuban Medical Missions in Belize
Are Cuban doctors being sent back from Belize?
According to Belize's Minister of Health, Kevin Bernard, the government is not systematically sending Cuban doctors back to Cuba. The departure of belongings is attributed to personal vacation travel.
What is the future of the Cuban Medical Brigade in Belize?
The future of the Cuban Medical Brigade in Belize is uncertain as diplomatic discussions between Belize and Cuba continue. A decision is expected before the end of September.
Why is the U.S. concerned about Cuban medical missions?
The U.S. State Department considers Cuban medical missions to be a form of "forced labor" and has been pressuring regional governments to reevaluate their agreements with Cuba.