Report reveals torture techniques in Cuban prisons.

The inmates are handcuffed in uncomfortable positions and deprived of water.

Carcel cubana (referencial) © Raquel Pérez / Cartas desde Cuba
Cuban prison (referential)Photo © Raquel Pérez / Letters from Cuba

A report from the independent organization Cubalex revealed several torture techniques in Cuban prisons that violate the international standards established by the Mandela Rules on the treatment of prisoners.

According to the testimony of several prisoners consulted by the organization, as a torture practice, inmates are often handcuffed in painful positions for long hours and are deprived of drinking water.

They also mention other violations of the Mandela Rules, such as the excessive duration of isolation, which can extend for up to three months: "This significantly exceeds the limits established by the Mandela Rules, which consider prolonged isolation (more than 15 consecutive days) as a violation of human rights," it emphasizes.

It also points out the lack of independent review, which means that decisions regarding isolation fall on the head of the penitentiary facility and can lead to abuses and arbitrary decisions.

Thirdly, there is insufficient protection for vulnerable groups, such as pregnant women, minors under 18, and people with disabilities, from isolation; and the precarious conditions of punitive cells, which are extremely small, poorly ventilated, have deplorable hygiene, and minimal furnishings. Additionally, they lack water and do not meet hygiene standards.

Cubalex adds that these violations have a devastating impact on the mental and physical health of inmates, causing extreme stress, anxiety, and other psychological issues.

The report calls for respect for the Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners, known as the Mandela Rules, which establish principles to ensure humane and dignified treatment of inmates.

These regulations prohibit practices such as indefinite isolation and punishment conditions that involve torture or cruel treatment.

In Cuba, there are more than a thousand political prisoners who are frequently subjected to these illegal practices.

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