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The Cuban Observatory of Human Rights (OCDH) documented at least 152 repressive actions in Cuba during the month of January, directed against both activists and the civilian population. According to the organization's report, among these actions, there were 18 arbitrary detentions and 66 abuses against political prisoners or their families, with the most affected provinces being Havana, Camagüey, Villa Clara, and Santiago de Cuba.
The OCDH also raised concerns about the ongoing harassment by the political police against those who visit José Daniel Ferrer following his release, as well as the detention of anthropologist and activist Jenny Pantoja when she attempted to protest for human rights. Another noteworthy case is that of journalist Jorge Enrique Rodríguez, a contributor to Diario de Cuba, who has been summoned and interrogated multiple times.
The report also highlights that the pressure against the opposition has not ceased, with new summons issued to Ferrer before the courts, the expulsion of a journalist from the Ludwig Foundation in Havana following pressure from State Security, the arrest of opponents attempting to attend a wake, and the denial of extrajudicial benefits to political prisoners.
The international community has expressed its concern over the intensification of repression in Cuba and the halt of the political prisoner release process managed by the Vatican. Meanwhile, the OCDH warns that the persecution of activists and independent journalists remains a strategy of the regime to silence dissent.
During the first month of 2025, repression against the Cuban opposition and activists has taken various forms, reflecting an increase in surveillance and harassment by the regime.
Among the many documented cases is that of independent artist Fernando Almenares Rivera, known as Nando OBDC, who was arrested in Havana on charges of being linked to a fire in Lenin Park. His detention has been understood as retaliation against dissenting art on the island.
The Cuban activist and doctor Fernando Vázquez was violently arrested by security agents in Havana.
José Daniel Ferrer, leader of the Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU), was released after being imprisoned under deplorable conditions. However, Ferrer continues to be targeted by surveillance and harassment from State Security, as has been reported by the U.S. government, warning about the danger he faces inside the island.
Incidents like these and others confirm the intensification of control over the opposition and critical voices in Cuba, employing repressive tactics both in the physical and digital realms to limit dissent and restrict the right to freedom of expression.
Frequently Asked Questions about Repression and Human Rights in Cuba
How many repressive actions did the OCDH document in Cuba during January 2025?
The Cuban Observatory of Human Rights (OCDH) documented at least 152 repressive actions in Cuba during January 2025, targeted both at activists and the civilian population. These include arbitrary detentions and abuses against political prisoners or their families.
Which provinces of Cuba were the most affected by these repressive actions?
The provinces most affected by repressive actions were Havana, Camagüey, Villa Clara, and Santiago de Cuba. These regions experienced a high number of arrests and abuses during the month of January 2025.
What notable cases of repression occurred in Cuba in January 2025?
Among the prominent cases of repression in January 2025 is the arbitrary detention of Cuban activist and doctor Fernando Vázquez, as well as the arrest of independent artist Fernando Almenares Rivera, known as Nando OBDC. These cases reflect the regime's repression in Cuba against any form of dissent.
How has the international community reacted to the repression in Cuba?
The international community has expressed concern over the increasing repression in Cuba and the halt of the political prisoners' release process. Human rights organizations and governments have urged the Cuban regime to respect human rights and free political prisoners.
What has happened with the process of releasing political prisoners in Cuba?
The process of releasing political prisoners in Cuba has slowed down, and as of the end of January 2025, no new releases have been recorded. This situation coincides with Cuba's return to the list of state sponsors of terrorism by the United States.
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