European Parliament adopts resolution condemning human rights violations in Cuba

The European Parliament has approved a resolution condemning human rights violations in Cuba and has called on the European Union (EU) to impose sanctions on those responsible for the repression in the country, including Cuban dictator Miguel Díaz-Canel.

The resolution received 359 votes in favor, 226 against, and 50 abstentions following a plenary session debate on June 13.

The resolution urges Cuban authorities to end the repression, release individuals detained solely for exercising their rights, withdraw unjust criminal charges, and allow exiles to return.

It was supported by the European People’s Party, European Liberals and Conservatives, while opposed by the Socialists and Democrats, the Left, and the Greens.

The European Parliament’s position, established after a debate with the EU High Representative in June, highlights the inclusion of a human rights clause in the EU-Cuba Political Dialogue and Cooperation Agreement.

The agreement can be suspended in the event of human rights violations. Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) emphasized that the EU and its member states should respond proportionally to the human rights situation in Cuba.

MEPs called for a firm condemnation of the repression and increased support for civil society representatives.

They also urged the Council to impose sanctions on those responsible for persistent human rights violations in Cuba, starting with Diaz-Canel and other senior Cuban government officials.

Regarding the trip made by EU High Representative Josep Borrell to Cuba in May, MEPs criticized his failure to meet with independent civil society representatives, political prisoners, or their families.

They expressed disappointment in the missed opportunity and denounced the counterproductive effect of whitewashing the Cuban regime, which they believed Borrell’s visit contributed to.