The renowned Spanish singer-songwriter Alejandro Sanz expressed his support for the Cuban youth who are leading the recent protests against the increase in mobile data internet service fees announced by the Cuban Telecommunications Company S.A (ETECSA).
Through his official account on X, the artist shared a message of encouragement and admiration: "In the voice of Cuban youth beats the future of a country that still dreams awake".
Sanz's words arrive at a time of increasing tension in Cuba, where students from various universities across the country have called for a faculty strike in protest against the rise in rates and the dollarization of these services on the island. The protest, which has gained momentum and visibility on social media as well as in independent and international press, has primarily been led by young people who are demanding fair prices for connection services.
With his message, Alejandro Sanz reaffirms his commitment to human rights and freedom in Cuba, highlighting the symbolic and political value of youth as a driving force for change. His words not only encourage those protesting on the island, but also amplify internationally the cause of thousands of Cubans who dream of a freer, fairer, and more connected Cuba.
An artist committed to Cuba
It is not the first time Alejandro Sanz has spoken in support of the Cuban people. In 2022, the singer directed harsh words at Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel following the arrests and repression of July 11, stating: “Count to four and you’re out, Díaz-Canel”. Already in 2021, he had described the Cuban regime as a dictatorship that does not deserve to be called a revolution.
His constant support has been celebrated by thousands of Cubans who see him as an international voice in solidarity with the social causes of the island.
University protests against ETECSA's "tariff hike"
Since May 30th, when ETECSA announced the new measures, students from universities in Havana, Villa Clara, Santiago de Cuba, Holguín, and other provinces have publicly reported the new prices imposed on connectivity in Cuba.
Young people have raised their voices arguing that these measures do not correspond to socialism as they only serve the interests of a monopoly, being the only telecommunications company in Cuba. They are completely unpopular since they force Cubans to rely on top-ups from abroad, as the extra packages announced in Cuban pesos are a mockery compared to the salaries of people on the island.
While students are calling for a teachers' strike, the response from the Cuban dictatorship has been a call to "rally together" against the protests from the youth, labeling them as provocations orchestrated by dissidents and the opposition. Supporters of the government on the island, along with the official press, have dismissed the statements made by university students as false, despite them proving to be entirely legitimate.
The students have reiterated their rejection of these maneuvers even in front of international media, stating that they will continue to raise their voices despite the threats from State Security, political organizations, and even the administrators and professors of their universities.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Protests in Cuba and the Increase in Internet Rates
Why does Alejandro Sanz support young Cubans in the protests?
Alejandro Sanz supports young Cubans in the protests because he believes that the future of a freer and fairer country beats in their voices. The singer-songwriter has consistently demonstrated a commitment to human rights and freedom in Cuba, highlighting the value of youth as a driving force for change. His statements have had a symbolic and political impact, amplifying internationally the cause of thousands of Cubans demanding social justice and better living conditions.
What has motivated the recent student protests in Cuba?
The recent student protests in Cuba were sparked by the announcement of increased internet fees by ETECSA. This rise has caused widespread discontent, especially among young people, who view these measures as unpopular and contrary to the principles of socialism. The students are demanding fair prices for connection services and have called for a teachers' strike as a sign of peaceful resistance.
How has the Cuban government responded to the criticism over ETECSA's rate hike?
The Cuban government has responded to criticisms regarding the ETECSA rate increase by attributing them to manipulation campaigns on social media. Miguel Díaz-Canel has justified the measures as necessary to improve the quality of telecommunications services and has promised more detailed explanations in the future. However, the population has reacted with skepticism and discontent, considering that these justifications are insufficient given the adverse economic impact.
What role do public figures play in the context of the protests in Cuba?
Public figures have played a crucial role in highlighting and supporting the protests in Cuba. Artists such as Alejandro Sanz, Haydée Milanés, and Luis Alberto García have expressed their support for young Cubans and have openly criticized government measures. These voices have helped raise international awareness about the situation on the island and have strengthened the demand for human rights and social justice.
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