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Child labor, a reality often silenced in Cuba, has been officially acknowledged in Las Tunas through the article “Child Labor: The Twilight of Dreams”, published this Friday by Periódico 26, the official media of the province.
The research, authored by journalist Yuset Puig Pupo, gives a face and story to a phenomenon that, although informal and shaped by the economic crisis, violates fundamental rights of children.
The report addresses stories such as that of "Pablo," a 16-year-old teenager who works in charcoal production to support his family, and "Cristian," who balances high school with lawn mowing to sell it.
These reveal how precariousness drives many minors to engage in demanding and dangerous physical labor, the publication states.
The Minister of Labor and Social Security, Marta Elena Feitó, had already warned about the indications of child labor in the province during Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz's visit last December, the article recalled.
"The detected activities are mostly informal, as no state or private employer can legally hire anyone under the age of 17," stated Miguel González Velázquez, provincial director of Labor and Social Security.
However, he acknowledged that many teenagers contribute to family businesses or agricultural activities, especially in rural areas.
From the education sector, prevention and monitoring mechanisms have been activated. Juan Migüel Barrios, provincial deputy director of Education, stated that, so far, no cases of school abandonment due to work reasons have been reported, although there are students who work after classes.
The Prosecutor's Office has also intervened in detected cases, issuing warnings to parents who allow or encourage their children to sell products in public spaces or in educational centers. “Child labor is a crime, and Cuban law strictly prohibits it,” reminded Daisy Torres Álvarez, head prosecutor of the Family Protection Department.
The report emphasizes the need to maintain a preventive approach, strengthen social assistance for vulnerable families, and ensure safe spaces for children's recreation.
The institutions in Las Tunas have raised alarms and urge against normalizing a situation that could have lifelong consequences for children and adolescents.
"Conceiving a child is a miracle. But we cannot allow dreams to fade so early," concludes the article, making a clear and uncomfortable truth known: child labor exists in Cuba, and it is urgent to protect the youngest from the burden of deprivation.
The protection of childhood is challenging for many parents when the state is unable to guarantee the well-being and food and financial security of families.
Frequently Asked Questions About Child Labor in Cuba and Its Official Recognition
What has the official press revealed about child labor in Las Tunas?
The official press has acknowledged the existence of child labor in Las Tunas through an article published by Periódico 26. The report highlights how the economic crisis forces many minors to engage in demanding and dangerous physical work, violating their fundamental rights.
What are the most significant stories about child labor in Las Tunas?
Among the most striking stories, the article mentions "Pablo," a 16-year-old teenager who works in the production of charcoal to support his family, and "Cristian," who assists his family by cutting grass for sale. These stories reflect the precariousness that drives minors to engage in dangerous jobs and highlight the urgent need to protect children in Cuba.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to address child labor?
Despite the fact that Cuban law prohibits child labor, the government has been criticized for its insufficient financial support to the most vulnerable families. The authorities have activated prevention and monitoring mechanisms, but the lack of resources and the economic crisis continue to exacerbate the problem.
What role do families play in the situation of child labor in Cuba?
Families, often driven by economic necessity, allow or even encourage their children to work to contribute to the household income. However, the Cuban regime has been criticized for blaming families and not taking responsibility for the issue by failing to provide a safe and adequate environment for child development.
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