The humanitarian crisis in Cuba receives a firm backing from the Caribbean Community (Caricom). Its heads of state and government, gathered in San Juan, Puerto Rico, declared this Friday their commitment to strengthening the region, including the island, affected by the US blockade.
Official statement from Puerto Rico
Caribbean leaders attribute part of the humanitarian crisis to the economic embargo imposed by Washington since 1960, intensified in recent years. They recognize shortages of food, medicines, and fuels that have hit the Cuban population, with UN reports indicating annual losses of over $4 billion due to the blockade in 2023.
Historical context of the blockade and its impact
Background of Caribbean solidarity
This position is not new. Caricom has condemned the blockade in multiple summits since Cuba joined as an observer in 1998 and a full member in 2008. In 2024, the UN General Assembly voted overwhelmingly in favor of lifting it, with 187 countries in favor and only the US and Israel against. The humanitarian crisis worsened post-pandemia, with galloping inflation and massive migration: over 500,000 Cubans have left for the US since 2022.
- Chronic shortage of medicines: 80% of unmet needs according to the Red Cross.
- Decline of Cuban GDP: 11% in 2020, slow recovery due to sanctions.
- Record migration: irregular fleet to Florida tripled.
Analysis of the Caricom statement
The statement emphasizes regional unity in the face of common challenges like hurricanes and climate change, but highlights the humanitarian crisis in Cuba as a proof of external injustice. Experts like Cuban economist Omar Everleny point out that the blockade limits vital imports, exacerbating inequalities. Countries like Jamaica and Barbados have sent direct humanitarian aid.
From the Dominican Republic, a neighboring Caribbean country, this support is being watched closely, recalling previous summits in Santo Domingo where Caricom promoted economic integration without blockades.
The humanitarian crisis in Cuba persists, and Caricom’s support aims to counteract its deep effects on regional stability.
