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The Gender Observatory of Yo Sí Te Creo en Cuba (YSTCC) confirmed this Tuesday a new case of femicide, bringing the total number of women murdered in the country due to gender-based violence to 12 so far this year.
The victim was identified as Melissa Vale Castillo, who was attacked by her ex-partner and the father of her two children on April 23rd, at her home located in El Salao, Santiago de Cuba.
A devastating crime and more questions than answers
Melissa was murdered in her home, in front of her young children, in a brutal act that again highlights the lack of effective protection mechanisms for victims of gender violence in Cuba.
The observatory reported that it is still gathering information about Melissa's age, and that others were injured during the attack, although no details about their condition have been provided.
In its statement, YSTCC expressed: "Our condolences go out to the two young children of Melissa, her sister, as well as to other family members and close friends."
Impunity and silence: a persistent pattern
This case was verified by community sources and reports from citizens, independent media, and activists, thanks to the collaborative efforts of YoSíTeCreo en Cuba and the Gender Observatory Alas Tensas (OGAT).
Both organizations have warned about the underreporting of these crimes in the country, where the government does not publish official figures or ensure transparency in the judicial processes related to gender-based violence.
As of April 29, 2025, observers have confirmed 12 femicides and are investigating 6 additional alerts in different provinces: Artemisa, Matanzas, Santiago de Cuba, Havana, Granma, and Camagüey.
An urgent call to break the silence
YSTCC reiterated that reporting is not a crime and urged citizens to report any cases of extreme gender violence. The observatory continues to gather information and provide safe channels for those who wish to communicate these incidents.
In a country where there is still no comprehensive law against gender-based violence, independent activism has become the main support for raising awareness and providing assistance to victims.
Frequently asked questions about femicides in Cuba
How many femicides have been recorded in Cuba in 2025?
As of April 29, 2025, 12 femicides have been confirmed in Cuba, according to the Gender Observatory of Yo Sí Te Creo en Cuba and Alas Tensas. In addition, another 6 alerts are being investigated in various provinces of the country.
Why doesn't the Cuban government publish official statistics on femicides?
The Cuban regime has decided that statistics on femicides and gender-based violence will be classified as non-public. The government does not recognize the term "femicide" in its legislation and has chosen not to make these figures accessible, which has sparked criticism for a lack of transparency and effective action against patriarchal violence.
What role do feminist platforms play in the recording of feminicides in Cuba?
feminist platforms like Yo Sí Te Creo en Cuba and Alas Tensas play a crucial role in documenting femicides in the country. In the absence of official statistics, these organizations independently collect data and provide safe channels for reporting gender violence, helping to highlight this serious issue.
What obstacles do victims of gender-based violence face in Cuba?
Victims of gender-based violence in Cuba face multiple obstacles, such as the lack of an adequate legal framework that classifies femicide as a crime and the absence of effective protection mechanisms. Moreover, the lack of transparency in official statistics and the underreporting of cases hinder the attention to and prevention of these crimes.
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