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Repression in Cuba continues to grow, with a concerning and sustained increase in the number of political prisoners, which peaked in November with 34 new detentions.
According to data from the human rights organization Prisoners Defenders, the total number of political prisoners reached 1,148 in November, with 34 new arrests that month.
This figure is just the tip of the iceberg of a relentless persecution that now targets not only activists but also the general population.
Of the 34 new political prisoners, 30 were arrested during the recent protests on the island, where thousands of Cubans demonstrated mainly against the lack of basic services such as water and electricity.
Among them are 17 detainees in Villa Clara, three in Ciego de Ávila, two in Camagüey, seven in Santiago de Cuba, and one in Pinar del Río.
In the past year, the list of political prisoners in Cuba increased by 155, averaging 13 new arrests each month.
This brings the total number of political prisoners since July 1, 2021, to 1,785, of whom 650 suffer from severe illnesses exacerbated by inhumane conditions in prison, and 70 experience serious mental health disorders as a result of torture and mistreatment.
The report, which was published on the occasion of Human Rights Day on December 10, also highlights the deaths of four political prisoners in the past year, reflecting the brutality of the Cuban regime towards individuals in state custody.
The international community largely remains indifferent to this humanitarian crisis, the entity notes.
Frequently Asked Questions about Political Prisoners in Cuba
What is the current number of political prisoners in Cuba?
The current number of political prisoners in Cuba is 1,148, according to the Prisoners Defenders report from November 2024. This figure reflects an increase of 34 new arrests in just one month, highlighting the growing repression of the Cuban regime.
Which groups have been most affected by the recent political arrests in Cuba?
Recent political arrests in Cuba have impacted various groups, including 33 minors, 128 women, and 650 individuals with serious medical conditions. Furthermore, 70 prisoners suffer from severe mental health disorders, which exacerbates their situation in prison.
What role has the international community played regarding the situation of political prisoners in Cuba?
Despite the reports and warnings from international human rights organizations, the international community has largely remained indifferent to the humanitarian crisis in Cuba. This is evident in the lack of effective measures to pressure the Cuban regime to release political prisoners.
What are the main causes of the recent protests in Cuba?
The recent protests in Cuba have been driven by the lack of basic services such as water and electricity, along with growing discontent over repression and precarious economic conditions. These demonstrations reflect the Cuban people's desire for change and an improvement in their living conditions.
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