Cuba Sanctions Called for Immediate Lifting by UN Human Rights Leader

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Warns of Humanitarian Crisis in Cuba Due to US Sanctions

Volker Turk, the UN’s high commissioner for human rights, has expressed concern over the impact of recent US sanctions on Cuba. The sanctions, imposed by the Trump administration since January 2026, have restricted Cuba’s access to foreign oil supplies and imposed penalties on various sectors of the country.

According to Turk, these restrictions are having a severe effect on Cubans, particularly children. He stated that doctors lack access to essential medical supplies and medicines, resulting in high infant mortality rates. The survival rate for childhood cancer has also declined significantly.

Turk emphasized that the sanctions run contrary to basic principles of international human rights law. He called for the sanctions to be lifted immediately, citing the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Cuba.

The US sanctions have isolated Cuba from the global community, making it difficult for companies and airlines to operate in the country. This has resulted in a decline in essential services such as public transportation and medical care. The de facto oil blockade has also led to frequent power outages and reduced access to international financial systems.

Turk’s office cited statistics showing that infant death rates have doubled, reaching 9.9 for every 1,000 births. The survival rate for childhood cancer has declined from 85% to 65%. Additionally, the Cuban government reported a backlog of 96,387 people awaiting surgery, including 11,193 minors.

The UN high commissioner also highlighted the risks posed by natural disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes, which can exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Cuba.

Source: Al Jazeera