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The opposition leader José Daniel Ferrer criticized the European Union (EU) this Wednesday for what he sees as a complete lack of interest in the situation of human rights defenders in Cuba.
Through a message on social media, Ferrer expressed his frustration with the institution, emphasizing that, despite Cuban opponents peacefully advocating for democracy and human rights, the EU has shown no interest in understanding how those who fight in Cuban prisons survive, which he described as "modern concentration camps."
"If Cuban democrats, instead of being supporters of Western values, were Europeans defending regimes like those of Cuba, Venezuela, or North Korea, we would have a lot of support from many dictatorships around the world," Ferrer stated on Facebook.
"But since we are peaceful defenders of democracy and human rights, the @UEenCuba has shown no interest whatsoever in making a quick call to ask us how we survive in those modern concentration camps that are Cuban prisons," he added.
Ferrer also made a call to the Euro MPs who have shown solidarity, thanking them for their support in a context where the EU's policy towards Cuba has been widely criticized by the Cuban opposition. "Thanks to the Euro MPs who have indeed been very supportive," he expressed.
This strong demand from Ferrer is set against a backdrop of tensions with the EU regarding its stance towards the Cuban regime.
In 2021, Cuban opposition figures Guillermo Fariñas and Berta Soler, who received the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought, also denounced the abandonment by the EU, accusing it of failing to uphold its commitment to support the human rights defenders on the island.
The dissidents even threatened to relinquish their awards if the EU did not change its policy towards Cuba, arguing that the community bloc had chosen a "diplomatic silence" in the face of human rights violations in the country.
Frequently Asked Questions about José Daniel Ferrer and the human rights situation in Cuba
Why does José Daniel Ferrer criticize the European Union?
José Daniel Ferrer criticizes the European Union for its lack of interest in the human rights situation in Cuba. According to Ferrer, the EU has shown no interest whatsoever in the situation of Cuban dissidents who are peacefully fighting for democracy and human rights, particularly those who are imprisoned under inhumane conditions.
What actions has the international community taken regarding the situation of José Daniel Ferrer?
The international community, including the United States and several MEPs, has called for concrete actions to sanction the Cuban regime and demand the release of José Daniel Ferrer. The U.S. government and various international organizations have expressed their concern for his health condition and the circumstances of his detention, demanding his immediate release.
What is the current situation of political prisoners in Cuba?
The situation of political prisoners in Cuba is alarming, according to reports from various international organizations. The prisoners face inhumane conditions, including a lack of food, medical care, and hygiene products. Repression in Cuban prisons has intensified, and systematic human rights violations have been documented.
How has José Daniel Ferrer responded to the threats of new arrests?
José Daniel Ferrer has stated that he is not afraid of the possibility of being arrested again. He has reaffirmed his commitment to fighting for freedom and democracy in Cuba, even if it means returning to prison. Ferrer has expressed his willingness to continue denouncing the abuses of the Cuban regime and has called for unity among the opposition.
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