A Cuban mother publicly reported that her son, who has a chronic health condition, was forced to join the Mandatory Military Service (SMO) despite not being medically fit. The teenager, just 16 years old, has suffered from high blood pressure since he was 12 and experiences diastolic heart dysfunction, which has kept him under constant treatment for six years.
According to the account shared by the mother in a post on that has started circulating again on social media, the young man recently completed the “preparatory” phase, an initial preparation before being assigned to a military unit, which, in his case, lasted over twenty days. During that time, he spent 15 days hospitalized in military facilities due to health complications.
"What use is a sick teenager in the Military Service?" questioned the mother. "They are forcing him to fulfill a role for which he is not medically prepared. His life is at risk."
During one of her visits to the facility where her son is held in pre-trial detention, the mother reported neglect on the part of the military staff. She claims that there are no adequate sanitary facilities and that in the Purnio Unit, where her son is located, there is no doctor available until after 9:45 a.m.
Additionally, it recounts that some officers dismissed the young man's discomfort, accusing him of faking it.
It was only after insistence and the presentation of medical documentation that the officials agreed to transfer him to the military hospital, where his unstable blood pressure was confirmed. Currently, the teenager has been admitted again.
"Yesterday she told me she had a headache; we don't know if it's due to her myopia or the blood pressure. The pediatrician at the clinic checked her pressure: 145/80. It's unacceptable that she's being kept there," she reported.
The mother claims that she timely informed the recruitment authorities about her son's health condition, hoping that he would be assigned alternative duties. However, this was ignored, and he was still incorporated into the SMO.
“I never thought that my son, with such fragile health, would have to go through this. He has already been hospitalized twice in just 15 days,” she lamented.
The case adds to a growing sentiment against Military Service in Cuba, particularly following the deaths of several young people during the fire at the Supertankers Base in Matanzas and the explosion at a military unit in Holguín.
Numerous campaigns have emerged on social media denouncing the compulsory nature of SMO and the risks for unprepared adolescents without proper conditions.
The mother's post concludes with a powerful statement directed at those who criticize her for going public with her complaint: "They tell me that by making this post, I am playing into the hands of the enemy. But today, as a mother, my only enemy is the one who threatens my son's life.”
Frequently Asked Questions about Mandatory Military Service in Cuba and Its Implications
Why was a teenager with health issues forced to fulfill Mandatory Military Service in Cuba?
Despite medical warnings about his health condition, the teenager was called to fulfill Mandatory Military Service (SMO) in Cuba. His mother had informed the authorities about his medical conditions, but they decided to ignore the situation and proceed with his recruitment. This situation reflects the lack of sensitivity and consideration of the Cuban regime towards the health and well-being of its citizens, especially in the context of the SMO.
What are the criticisms of Mandatory Military Service in Cuba?
The Mandatory Military Service in Cuba has faced increasing criticism due to the precarious conditions, mistreatment, and medical negligence that recruits encounter. Recent incidents, such as the deaths of young individuals in accidents and explosions, have intensified public opposition to this practice, which is seen as dangerous and oppressive for adolescents.
What is the impact of Mandatory Military Service on the mental and physical health of young Cubans?
Mandatory Military Service has a significant negative impact on the mental and physical health of young Cubans. Recent cases have shown how adolescents suffer from physical deterioration, psychological pressure, and, in some instances, extreme risk situations that result in tragedies. These adverse conditions have led to strong social repudiation and activism against Mandatory Military Service.
What actions have families and activists taken against Mandatory Military Service in Cuba?
Families and activists have launched campaigns on social media and public demonstrations to denounce the conditions of the Mandatory Military Service and demand its abolition. These actions aim to highlight injustices and pressure the Cuban regime to reevaluate this compulsory policy that endangers the youth of the island.
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