The European Parliament described the Cuban medical brigades as a form of “modern slavery” and “forced labor,” after approving an amendment to the annual foreign policy report that marks a turning point in the diplomatic stance of the bloc towards the Havana regime.
The amendment, presented by Spanish MEP Antonio López-Istúriz White, was included in the document that guides the international action of the European Union, which also includes condemnations of the dictatorships in Venezuela and Nicaragua.
“For the first time, we have introduced in @EP_ForeignAff, in the annual report that summarizes and shapes European foreign policy, this denunciation about the well-known ‘Cuban medical brigades,’” wrote López-Istúriz on the social media platform X.
This is about Amendment 311 and denounces that these medical missions that the Cuban regime promotes as an act of solidarity are nothing more than a mechanism of exploitation that violates the fundamental freedoms of the doctors and health professionals who participate in them.
A million-dollar business based on exploitation
Human rights organizations, defecting doctors, and independent studies have documented that Cuban professionals are sent abroad under constant surveillance, with their passports retained, without the possibility of traveling with their families, and without full access to the salaries paid by the host countries.
It is estimated that the Cuban regime appropriates between 75% and 90% of each doctor's salary, making these brigades one of the main sources of income for the State.
The European Parliament considers this practice a contemporary form of slavery, contrary to the values and principles upheld by the bloc.
Diplomatic blow to the propaganda of Castroism
With this decision, the Eurochamber sends a strong signal internationally, demonstrating what they consider a disguised exploitation of medical cooperation and making it clear that it will not be tolerated.
The inclusion of this complaint in the central document of European foreign policy sets a precedent that could result in sanctions, restrictions, and increased pressure on the Cuban regime.
The report also reaffirms the Parliament's commitment to human rights and democracy in Latin America by extending its condemnation of the violations committed by the governments of Daniel Ortega in Nicaragua and Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela, both allies of Castroism.
The resolution has been celebrated by activists and organizations that have denounced for years the semi-slavery conditions of thousands of Cuban health professionals. It represents an advancement in raising awareness about the victims of one of the regime's propaganda pillars.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuban Medical Brigades and the European Parliament Amendment
Why did the European Parliament label Cuban medical brigades as "modern slavery"?
The European Parliament considers that Cuban medical brigades are a form of "modern slavery" and "forced labor" due to the working conditions imposed on the doctors, such as the confiscation of their passports, the requirement to send the majority of their salaries to the Cuban regime, and the constant surveillance they are subjected to. These factors violate the fundamental freedoms of health professionals.
How does this amendment affect the European Union's relationship with Cuba?
The approval of the amendment by the European Parliament marks a significant shift in the EU's diplomatic stance towards Cuba, sending a clear signal of condemnation of the practices of the Cuban regime. This could lead to sanctions, restrictions, and increased pressure on the Cuban government, impacting its international reputation and cooperation with other countries.
What position has the Prime Minister of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines taken on Cuban medical brigades?
Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves has defended the Cuban medical brigades, arguing that doctors must give a part of their salaries to the regime due to the free education they received in Cuba. Gonsalves believes that these brigades are essential for the healthcare system of his country and has downplayed the accusations of labor exploitation, sparking a heated debate about the labor rights of these professionals.
What measures has the United States taken regarding Cuban medical missions?
The United States has imposed sanctions on Cuban officials and others who hire Cuban doctors under exploitative conditions. These measures aim to combat forced labor and human trafficking associated with Cuban medical missions. Furthermore, the U.S. has urged the governments that receive these missions to ensure fair and transparent labor practices.
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