The Christian Alliance of Cuba (ACC) denounced this Tuesday the serious situation the country is facing, characterized by a “deep political, economic, social, and spiritual crisis,” along with a sustained increase in repression, including severe restrictions on religious freedom.
In a public statement released by the Cuban Observatory of Human Rights on its X profile, representatives of the alliance, gathered in Camagüey alongside local pastors, raised concerns about the widespread deterioration of living conditions on the island.
According to data from the observatory itself, 89% of Cuban families currently live in extreme poverty, with no visible government plan to reverse this situation.
“The crisis is not only economic,” they warn, pointing to the example of the existence of at least 762 political prisoners and prisoners of conscience, as well as the increase in violence in neighborhoods, corruption, theft, femicides, drug use, and other phenomena that exacerbate social despair.
Particular concern was expressed regarding the limitations faced by churches and religious leaders in carrying out their pastoral and community work.
The alliance noted that more than 80% of local churches lack legal status, as only religious associations recognized before 1962 enjoy that legal status.
They also reported the confiscation of properties, the demolition of temples, obstacles to the importation of materials, the inability to provide extensive social services, and restrictions on supporting the population in hospitals, prisons, schools, and other institutions.
According to the report, in 2024 at least 996 repressive actions against religious leaders were documented, a number that, they claim, has remained at a similar monthly average in 2025 so far.
The ACC called on international institutions and democratic governments to demand that the Cuban regime put an end to harassment of religious freedom and legally recognize churches, denominations, and ministries.
"We do not ask for this for our own benefit, but for the good of the Cuban people," concludes the statement signed by the 63 members of the alliance and the witnesses present.
This organization has been one of the most active religious voices in denouncing the deterioration of rights on the island.
The news portal Diario de Cuba reported that in June 2024, during its second assembly held in Las Tunas, more than 60 Christian congregations signed a statement demanding that the Cuban government allow the legal registration of new churches and draft a legal framework that supports that right, as part of the fulfillment of Article 18 of the International Human Rights Charter.
In that same document, the organization also requested the release of all political prisoners and prisoners of conscience, as well as the cessation of pre-criminal judicial proceedings, considering them violations of international law and the presumption of innocence.
The Alliance also denounced the precarious situation of Cuban workers and condemned what it described as modern forms of slavery, referring to the use of medical missions abroad as a mechanism for generating foreign currency by the regime. It also called for effective action against violence against women, rather than further political repression.
Founded in November 2022 in Las Tunas, this Christian platform has as its central objectives the defense of the freedom of association and worship, as well as support for the release of political prisoners. Its statements have raised the profile of independent churches in light of the religious repression that prevails on the island.
Currently, the relations between the Cuban regime and the Church —including the Catholic Church and other denominations— are tense, marked by open criticisms from pastors and clergy on social media, who denounce the moral, institutional, and economic collapse of the country.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Crisis and Repression in Cuba
What is the current situation of religious freedoms in Cuba?
Religious freedoms in Cuba face severe restrictions, such as the lack of legal recognition for churches established after 1962 and the confiscation of religious properties. Repression includes actions against religious leaders and limitations on community service.
How does the current economic crisis affect Cuban families?
89% of Cuban families live in extreme poverty, with no visible government plan to reverse the situation. The crisis is evident in the scarcity of food, constant blackouts, and lack of basic services, increasing social despair.
What repressive actions is the Cuban population currently facing?
The Cuban population faces arbitrary detentions, violence, harassment, and restrictions on freedom of expression and religion. In 2024, at least 996 repressive actions against religious leaders were documented, along with numerous incidents of human rights violations in prisons.
What role does the Alliance of Christians in Cuba play in the defense of human rights?
The Christian Alliance of Cuba denounces the deterioration of rights on the island and advocates for freedom of association and worship, as well as the release of political prisoners. It has become an active voice in denouncing religious repression and the social crisis in Cuba.
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