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The human rights organization Cubalex issued an urgent alert this Thursday about the escalating repression by the Cuban regime against university students who have spoken out against the price hike imposed by ETECSA, the state telecommunications monopoly.
In a post shared on their official Facebook page, Cubalex announced that students from the University of Medical Sciences of Granma have been subjected to pressure.
According to the report, both the young people and their family members have received calls from private numbers and have been summoned by the National Revolutionary Police (PNR), where they have been compelled to sign letters of retraction regarding their public statements.
At the University of Oriente, an anonymous complaint describes a tense atmosphere. During a meeting with administrators, several students referred to Cuba as "a failed state," but they expressed fears of possible repercussions.
Cubalex also noted that, following complaints about inadequate lighting in common areas of a university scholarship, the authorities installed lights "immediately," an action interpreted as a reactive response to prevent further protests.
From the Central University "Marta Abreu" of Las Villas, students reported institutional censorship, the support of the FEU for ETECSA's measures, and the criminalization of protest.
In their letter, they also mention the intimidating presence of State Security agents, institutional manipulation, and the use of direct intimidation to suppress dissent.
The Academic Freedom Observatory also reported that plainclothes agents interrogated several students on the CUJAE campuses and at the Central University of Las Villas itself.
Cubalex concludes that this repression is directly related to the complaints against ETECSA, whose rates violate rights such as freedom of expression and access to information, exacerbating the digital divide and social exclusion in the country.
The organization warns that these actions are part of a pattern of institutional violence, characterized by intimidation, surveillance, censorship, digital coercion, and the complicity of academic structures.
Repression has also extended to activists and social media users who have expressed solidarity with the university strike.
“If you are a student and have been a victim of pressure, harassment, or censorship for exercising your right to express yourself: report it. You are not alone. Contact us safely,” urged Cubalex at the end of their publication.
Frequently Asked Questions about the repression of students in Cuba and the ETECSA price hike
What repressive measures is the Cuban government taking against students?
The Cuban government is using intimidation, surveillance, and censorship against protesting students. Cubalex has reported that students and their families receive calls from private numbers, are summoned by the National Revolutionary Police (PNR), and face the presence of State Security agents on campus. Furthermore, they are forced to sign letters of retraction and any attempt at protest is censored.
What is the main cause of the student protests in Cuba?
Students are protesting against the rate hike imposed by ETECSA, the state telecommunications monopoly, which has disproportionately increased internet fees. This not only limits access to information but also widens the digital divide and social exclusion in the country, negatively affecting the education and communication of students.
How have Cuban universities responded to student protests?
Universities have reacted in various ways. While some have supported ETECSA's measures and have tried to downplay the protests, others have become venues of tension and complaints. The University of Havana, for example, has stated that it will not allow disruptions in its educational processes and has reaffirmed its support for the Communist Party of Cuba, while at other universities, students continue to demand fairer fees and equitable access to connectivity.
What impact does the increase in ETECSA's rates have on Cuban society?
The increase in ETECSA's rates negatively impacts internet access and, consequently, education, research, and communication in Cuba. The new rates are unaffordable for many Cubans, given the economic situation and the low average salary in the country, leading to greater inequality and social exclusion, particularly affecting university students who rely on the internet for their studies and communication.
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