GENEVA (16 July 2021) – With numerous protesters reportedly detained in Cuba since Sunday, including some held
incommunicado, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet on Friday called for the prompt release of
all those who have been detained for exercising their rights to freedom of peaceful assembly, or freedom of opinion and
expression.
“I am very concerned at the alleged use of excessive force against demonstrators in Cuba and the arrest of a large
number of people, including several journalists,” Bachelet said. “It is particularly worrying that these include
individuals allegedly held incommunicado and people whose whereabouts are unknown. All those detained for exercising
their rights must be promptly released.”
“I deeply regret the death of one protester in the context of protests in Havana – it is important that there be an
independent, transparent, effective investigation, and that those responsible are held accountable,” she added.
The protests in Cuba take place in the context of a difficult economic situation. Protesters have demanded the lifting
of economic measures which have restricted people’s access to basic goods, including food, medicine and COVID-19
vaccines.
“I urge the Government to address the protesters’ grievances through dialogue, and to respect and fully protect the
rights of all individuals to peaceful assembly and to freedom of opinion and expression,” Bachelet said. She also called
for full restoration of access to the Internet and social media.
The High Commissioner reiterated her call for the lifting of unilateral sectoral sanctions, given their negative impact
on human rights, including the right to health.