14 july 2021, Vienna

IUSY Presidium

IUSY expresses its concern about the situation lived in Cuba over the last days. We are aware of what the revolution meant for the Cuban people, but today we should be willing to reflect on the state in which the country is plunged.

As democratic socialists, we condemn the repression of the protestants who reflect the discomfort of the population. IUSY believes that the right to protest is fundamental in any democracy.

Furthermore, IUSY is concerned about the escalation of tension felt in the region, due to internal and external factors, and reaffirms its commitment to a plural democracy and unconditional respect for human rights.

We believe in a democratic alternative and we’ve historically advocated for democratic progressive options in the country. Such alternatives have led the discussion for a more open model of the ‘Cuban revolution’, but have been systematically silenced by the ruling Cuban forces. We call upon the Cuban authorities to pave the way to a multi-party system in the country where everyone’s opinion is respected and taken into consideration.

Bearing the current complex scenario in mind, IUSY once again reiterates its demand for the lifting of the economic blockade that has contributed to the impoverishment of the Cuban people. The rescission of the embargo measures adopted by the previous U.S. administration is therefore essential to guarantee a democratic dialogue focused on the well-being of the Cuban people.

Today, the coronavirus crisis has deepened the island into its worst economic situation in 30 years. To add to this reality and the previously mentioned restrictions are the effects of monetary unification and the paralysis of tourism which constitute a concerning obstacle to the dignity and well-being of the Cuban people.

Because there cannot be a true revolutionary process without democracy, IUSY stands side by side with the Cuban people in the fight for a peaceful, democratic, and prosperous future.