A heartbreaking scene unfolded at the José Martí International Airport in Havana this weekend, where a child selling candy ended up in a police patrol car.
Journalist Mario Vallejo from Univisión 23 shared on his Facebook wall a video showing a young boy walking away in tears as he sees an officer approaching him. The boy is holding a paint bucket, which he likely used to carry the candies.
The incident occurred at Terminal 3 of the airport. Although the child got quite far away, he couldn't prevent the officers from putting him in the police car and taking him away.
An increasing number of children and adolescents are having to work in these types of activities to help their families survive, forced by the poverty brought on by the crisis affecting the country.
Last week, the case of a 15-year-old boy came to light who, despite having a tracheotomy, is forced to sell pizzas on the streets of Camagüey to contribute some money to his household.
"Not only does he sell pizzas, but he also does everything he can to make a living and earn some money," reported journalist José Luis Tan Estrada.
Days earlier, a social activist shared the story of two little brothers who roam the streets of Havana selling candy to support their grandmother, with whom they live.
In the streets of Cuba, you can see children selling sweets, tamales, avocados, peanuts... either alone or accompanied by adults, walking long distances and enduring exhausting days.
Last year, a boy from Santiago de Cuba was seen collecting waste in the streets to sell it to a state-owned company as raw material.
The child, around 10 or 11 years old, walked with a stick on his back carrying two full sacks while struggling to pick up two empty cardboard boxes.
Frequently Asked Questions about Child Labor and the Economic Crisis in Cuba
Why do Cuban children work on the streets?
Despite the fact that laws in Cuba prohibit child labor, the severe economic crisis forces many families to allow their children to work for survival. Economic necessity is the main factor driving minors to sell goods on the streets and engage in other forms of labor.
What are the most common types of work activities performed by Cuban children?
Cuban children often sell candies, tamales, avocados, peanuts, and other products on the streets. These activities expose them to risks and hazardous working conditions. It has also been documented that some children search for items in the trash or beg for money.
How does child labor impact children's education in Cuba?
Child labor significantly interferes with children's education. Many minors miss classes or arrive late due to their work responsibilities, which impacts their academic performance and personal development. This issue has even been acknowledged by the state-run media.
What are Cuban citizens doing to help child workers?
Citizens and activists are organizing solidarity actions to assist children in vulnerable situations. These initiatives include donations of food, clothing, and bicycles, as well as the establishment of community support networks. These efforts aim to alleviate the burdens on these young individuals and enhance their quality of life.
What responsibility does the Cuban government have regarding child labor?
Although the Cuban government prohibits child labor, the lack of economic support and the economic crisis contribute to the persistence of the problem. The regime has been criticized for not taking responsibility for the increase in child labor and for blaming families for this situation.
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