Position paper for Cuba
| Committee: | GA First |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The Cold War played a pivotal role in shifting international power dynamics and in its
wake the international community has continued to be divided. Specifically in regards to
nuclear disarmament in which an international consensus has yet to be solidified. While
the international community may still be uncertain, Cuba firmly believes in the complete
elimination of nuclear weapons from all countries and the continued awareness of the
dangers of weapons development. Cuba is a signatory to The United Nations Treaty on
the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, and in conjunction with that we have submitted a
declaration confirming that we do not own, possess, or control nuclear weapons, and
have never done so. We have affirmed our statements towards denuclearization through
our membership with the United Nations Office of Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) and
through our regional participation as a member of the G-21. Both of which are working
towards complete disarmament under strict international control. Under the Millennium
Declaration in 2000 the UN Member States reaffirmed their commitment to international
denuclearization. This declaration as well as Goal 16 of The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable
Development, which works towards promoting international peace, have found broad
support throughout the United Nations for denuclearization; however, we have also been
taking increased regional responsibility as well. We have signed The Treaty for the
Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons in Latin America and the Caribbean and have helped to
uphold Latin America and the Caribbean as a zone of peace at the Second Summit in
2014.
Cuba stands behind our denuclearization stance, but we also recognize that treaties alone are not enough to bring about the complete eradication of nuclear weapons. Specifically in regards to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) which we signed in 2002. We recognize the importance of the NPT, however, it does not change our long held opinion that the NPT alone is inadequate to bring about large scale international nuclear disarmament. Specifically, we still hold strong concerns regarding the lack of compliance by the major nuclear powers under the NPT. This is why we have continued our membership and support of the UNODA and have worked to maintain the zone of peace within Latin America and the Caribbean. These provide us with practical ways to continue to work towards our ultimate goal of complete international nuclear disarmament. Nuclear weapons are not the only technological warfare device that threatens global security and peace. Instead nuclear disarmament is only a small portion of what is needed to promote global peace. As a result, nuclear disarmament must happen in tandem with the monsterization of other new weapons advancements. Beyond nuclear disarmament Cuba supports the monitoring and regulating of weapons developments, specifically the development of lethal autonomous weapons systems and information and communication technologies (ICTs). We do not possess nor plan to develop any lethal autonomous weapons systems now or in the future. We encourage the enforcement of international human rights law in regards to the development of these weapons systems. We understand that these weapons cannot make complex decisions and so recognize the threat that they pose towards maintaining international peace. In regards to ICTs we recognize our own limitations when it comes to understanding the extent of what ICTs can do. Due to this lack of knowledge we support the Cyber Policy Portal of the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research as a practical step towards maintaining international peace in the face of developing ICTs. While we may not fully understand the capabilities of ICTs, we do understand that they can cause detrimental damage to a nation's infrastructure, national security, social affairs, and economy. As a result, we support the continuation of ICT monitoring and are open to future regulations on ICTs as necessary. Weapons that can cause mass damage to a nation need to be understood and contained for the continued peace and prosperity of the international community. | |
| Committee: | GA First |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| The conflict that was the Cold War, saw many different military tactics from many
countries, between artillery, arms, and chemical weapons. The delegation of Cuba has a
history of chemical weapon use in Angola in 1988 under a communist government. We
have worked hard to eliminate our use of chemical weapons and we urge other countries
to do the same.
As the Cuban delegation, we are strong believers in the disarmament of chemical weapons. In January 1993, Cuba was one of the first signatories to the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling, and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction. Cuba later ratified this prohibition in April 1997. In July 2018, Cuba stated its support for OPCW and reiterated its rejection of the use of chemical weapons in any circumstance. As recently as November of 2023, Cuba held its opinion on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling, and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction. Cuba, a member of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), supported these ideals by calling for a ceasefire within Gaza. The use of white phosphorus by Israel in the region has been included in the deaths of more than 25,000 Palestinians. The delegation of Cuba would like to further its support in the disarmament of chemical weapons by any actor in any circumstance. The recent Russian and Ukrainian conflict has seen the use of chemical weapons for riot control such as tear gas and choking agents. These chemical weapons are hard to control in large use and inhumane. With this, we would propose legislation or laws to ban any future creation, stockpiling, or use of chemical weapons. | |
| Committee: | GA Second |
| Topic: | Agriculture development, food security and nutrition |
| Paper text: | |
| On a global scale, food security and nutrition are worsening, driven by factors such as
climate change, conflict, and economic instability. Rising food prices and disruptions in
supply chains have left millions of people vulnerable to hunger and malnutrition. The
impact of these challenges is particularly severe in developing countries that have limited
resources to adapt to and combat these issues. Cuba is one of these nations- and has
faced persistent food insecurity and shortages due to its heavy reliance on food imports
and the ongoing U.S. embargo, which are only compounded by environmental factors and
the severe economic crisis.
Regarding Cuba's current agricultural and food security standing in comparison to other countries, Cuba ranks 72nd overall, out of 189 countries in the Human Development Index. This in and of itself isn't terrible, however, 31.6% of children aged 2 suffer from anemia, and in a 2023 Cuban Observatory for Human Rights (OCDH) report reveals that 78% of Cubans have stopped eating some meals, indicating undeniable hunger in Cuba. With nine in 10 Cubans barely earning enough to survive, and 62% struggling to buy essential goods. Furthermore, between 70 and 80% of Cuba's food is imported, which proves to be a huge problem for the country, due to the strain it causes the national budget with an already struggling economy. Compared to other Caribbean countries, Cuba is indeed one of the most successful in achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), eight goals set by the United Nations with the intention of increasing living standards/quality of life for individuals everywhere. The Cuban government has a monthly food basket for the entire population, school feeding programs, and mother-and-child health care programs. The program hinges on ration books, which have continued to be reduced as the country faces food shortages and supply issues. Moreover, there is low food diversity in Cuba, and few vegetables, so the average Cuban diet is poor in micronutrients. This is also one of the reasons anemia is so prevalent in the five eastern provinces, especially among young children, who need these nutrients and vitamins at such a critical stage in their lives. The government and the World Food Program are attempting to prioritize higher domestic food production in Cuba, specifically that of beans, which provide a critical protein source. A large portion of this endeavor has been converting state farms into cooperatives. Furthermore, farming technology in Cuba is practically obsolete, with incredibly outdated infrastructure and a lack of access to more modern farming technologies, which makes for low overall productivity and high post-harvest losses. Finally, from an environmental standpoint, Cuba is highly prone to tropical storms, hurricanes, heavy rainfalls, drought, and occasional earthquakes. Over the last eight years, climate hazards have caused more than USD 20 billion in losses, damaging the economy in general and food security in particular. Currently, Cuba is being slammed with water and food shortages due to the crumbling infrastructure, as well as the economic crisis that has only worsened due to COVID-19 and the United States embargo against Cuba. Upwards of 600,000 Cuban citizens are currently suffering from water supply issues, and Cuba just requested the help of the UN for the first time historically as food shortages and deprivation increase further. Cuba today faces serious challenges with food and water scarcity, and without significant changes to its economy and government, these issues are only expected to worsen. As global pressures like climate change and economic instability intensify, Cuba's situation reflects broader global struggles in achieving food security and quality of life standards. Addressing these crises will require both national reforms and international cooperation to find sustainable solutions that will benefit all, and get nutritional food back into the stomachs of children and adults everywhere. | |
| Committee: | GA Second |
| Topic: | Development cooperation with middle-income countries |
| Paper text: | |
| Development cooperation with middle-income countries is crucial for Cuba as it fosters
economic partnerships and trade opportunities, helping to diversify its economy and
reduce dependency on a few markets. Additionally, such cooperation strengthens
diplomatic relations, enabling Cuba to collaborate on shared challenges like healthcare,
education, and sustainable development. The Republic of Cuba has long been a
proponent of development cooperation, particularly with middle-income countries.
Despite facing an economic blockade imposed by the United States, Cuba has continued
to emphasize the importance of international solidarity, mutual aid, and South-South
cooperation as key mechanisms for development. Historically, Cuba has played a
significant role in supporting other developing nations through its various humanitarian
efforts, most notably in healthcare and education. Since the 1960s, Cuba has deployed
thousands of healthcare professionals to middle-income countries in Africa, Latin
America, and Asia. In 2014, Cuba was instrumental in combating the Ebola outbreak in
West Africa by sending medical teams, demonstrating its commitment to international
cooperation in times of crisis. The Henry Reeve International Medical Brigade, formed in
2005, has been a vital tool for such international missions, reinforcing the country's
leadership in humanitarian assistance and global health. Cuba's education programs also
underscore its commitment to cooperation in development. The Yo, SÃ Puedo (Yes, I Can)
literacy campaign has been implemented in numerous middle-income countries, including
Venezuela and Bolivia, significantly reducing illiteracy rates. This program highlights
Cuba's focus on building long-term capacity in partner nations, aligning with the principles
of sustainable development. Currently, Cuba's partnership with Venezuela, despite the
economic hardships both countries face, showcases its willingness to engage in resource-
sharing and technical assistance. Both nations collaborate on energy, education, and
healthcare initiatives, reinforcing regional stability and development. This cooperation,
though strained by external political pressures, remains an example of how countries in
similar economic conditions can leverage their strengths for mutual benefit.
Cuba firmly believes that middle-income countries face unique challenges, including high inequality, vulnerability to external shocks, and limitations in accessing international financing. These countries must be supported through enhanced access to technology, financial resources, and international markets. Cuba calls for stronger multilateral partnerships, as outlined in the Addis Ababa Action Agenda, which focuses on financing for development, and stresses the need for reforms in global financial institutions to accommodate middle-income countries better. In conclusion, Cuba remains dedicated to fostering solidarity and cooperation with middle-income countries, advocating for equitable growth and development in the international arena. The country urges the United Nations to support frameworks that strengthen South-South cooperation, ensuring that middle-income nations are not left behind in global development efforts. | |
| Committee: | GA Third |
| Topic: | Rights of indigenous peoples |
| Paper text: | |
| The global struggle for the rights of Indigenous peoples stands as one of the most
pressing human rights issues globally. Indigenous groups often face oppression,
marginalization and exploitation in many forms across the world. These challenges
include loss of land and threats to group culture and fundamental freedoms. The United
Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples was adopted in 2007 to establish
a universal framework on human rights as they apply to the specific situation of
Indigenous people. This framework provides a common foundation that helps further
Cuba's advocacy and support of Indigenous people and other marginalized groups with
other countries.
Cuba expresses solidarity with indigenous peoples rights and related movements. Over time, the population of indigenous peoples has decreased and blended in with the greater population. However, Cuba is a strong advocate for indigenous rights on the global stage by extending solidarity to indigenous movements in Latin America and beyond. Cuba is a member of CELAC (Community of Latin American and Caribbean States), ALBA (Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of Our America), and a contributor to UNESCO and the International Decade of Indigenous Languages (2022-2032), all of which are dedicated to providing socio economic reforms and advocating for marginalized groups. As is expressed in the UN's Rights of Indigenous Peoples 2022 Report, Cuba has signed their resolution which recognizes the importance of protecting cultures, revitalizing Indigenous languages, and honoring tradition. Cuba encourages the United Nations system to strengthen cooperation with the Fund for Development of the Indigenous Peoples of Latin American and the Caribbean, and invites Member States to continue measures to enhance human rights of Indigenous peoples. | |
| Committee: | GA Third |
| Topic: | Literacy for life |
| Paper text: | |
| Education serves as a stepping stone for societal advancement. Throughout history, the
right to literacy has not been universally granted, however, as an advocate for universal
literacy, the Republic of Cuba believes literacy is a fundamental human right that allows
societies to flourish through social equality, economic development, and empowerment of
the individual. In 1959, our government started prioritizing literacy in hopes of building a
better society after the Cuban Revolution. In order to do this, Cuba started their 1961
National Literacy Campaign which brought in over two hundred thousand volunteers from
around the world to teach specifically marginalized communities. As a result of our
efforts, Cuba now has a literacy rate of over ninety nine percent nearly eradicating
illiteracy throughout the country. Cuba is committed to helping other impoverished
countries build their education system as it will create a better world for all of us.
Emphasizing the importance of our 1961 Literacy Campaign, Cuba sees this as a historic example of our commitment to education for everyone. In 1953, three fourths of our population were considered illiterate based on UNESCOs definition of literacy, but in less than ten years our government got our illiteracy rate down to less than one percent. Because of our commitment to education, our government offers universal education for all Cuban citizens from preschool through university. Our efforts to publicize education has allowed a fair and equal opportunity for all Cubans seeking to further their education which in turn has made a nation full of capable and productive citizens. Having experienced high rates of illiteracy, Cuba believes that global cooperation is one of the key reasons their literacy rate sharply increased after the Cuban Revolution. Through the help of hundreds of thousands brigadistas, our country was able to reach even our most rural places to teach people how to read and write. Through this teaching, a popular phrase emerged, "Yes, I Can" demonstrating to the world that an impoverished country is now thriving, and other countries can do the same with the help of global cooperation. Wanting to continue educating people, we believe that we must work together to fight illiteracy. As Cuba, we believe in the importance of integrating literacy with other hands-on skills necessary for personal and community development. This holistic approach empowers citizens to fully participate in society, creating economic growth and improving the quality of life for all. The first step in creating a better world is equipping people with literacy skills that will allow them to learn, grow, and most importantly thrive as a nation. | |
| Committee: | GA Plenary |
| Topic: | The human right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment |
| Paper text: | |
| Recognizing the Immediate and Pressing Need for Urgent Global Action to Combat the Escalating Environmental Degradation, a Crisis that Demands Immediate Attention and Action The climate change crisis poses an unprecedented threat to humanity, manifesting in widespread disruptions to ecosystems, severe weather events, and rising sea levels, all of which jeopardize food security, health, and livelihoods globally, demanding immediate and concerted action to mitigate its far-reaching consequences. With its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems, Cuba has faced significant environmental challenges exacerbated by climate change, economic constraints from global hegemonic powers, and political factors, highlighting the urgent need for international action to combat escalating ecological degradation and promote sustainable development to all members of the United Nations. We strongly agree with the United Nations that all Member States must meet the human right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment. Cuba's unique geographical position and biodiversity are both assets and responsibilities. Rising sea levels threaten coastal communities, while extreme weather events, intensified by climate change, disrupt livelihoods and exacerbate food insecurity. The mangroves that build our coastlines are in danger of extinction due to our global climate crisis impacting every Member State, especially our fellow island nations. Additionally, our country's natural resources are under pressure from external economic constraints, particularly the longstanding U.S. embargo. Our nation has long prioritized environmental protection and sustainable development, understanding that ecological health is intertwined with our citizens' social and economic rights. We encourage other Member States to adopt and implement effective policies and legislation aimed at environmental protection, pollution prevention, and sustainable resource management, ensuring that these measures are inclusive and equitable. We were one of the 161 Member States to vote for the passing of the U.N. resolution on July 22, 2022: The human right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment, which encompasses Cuba's support in all areas of human environmental rights and sustainable development. Our government has implemented programs to combat the ongoing crisis afoot. Our country has invested in renewable energy, conservation programs, and sustainable agriculture, often with limited resources due to external economic pressures. Such programs include the National Adaptation Plan Initiative, which the Green Climate Fund supports. This program will be implemented and supervised by UNDP in Cuba in partnership with the Environment Agency of the Ministry of Science and Technology for over four and a half years to implement plans to develop areas of Cuba that are preparing for climate change. The World Food Programme and support from the Cuban government have gone to smallholder farms to respond to climate challenges and help meet the growing food demand. Cuba is susceptible to hurricanes, which cause droughts and water-table contamination of our nation's fertile lands. Farmers across northern Cuba, where the most fertile soil is located, have been building greenhouses to grow crops. These seedling houses are equipped with a special mesh to filter sun rays and unique sprinkler systems to irrigate the crops like it is raining through rain-collection systems. This system of seedling houses is an innovation of farming to allow Cuban citizens to have an availability of fresh-grown foods that are not impacted by the climate crisis. | |
| Committee: | GA Plenary |
| Topic: | Safety and security of humanitarian personnel and protection of United Nations personnel |
| Paper text: | |
| Within the past year, there have been 219 United Nations personnel lives lost and 172
humanitarian lives lost. This is a prevalent problem in our society as there may be dangers
within humanitarian crises caused by natural disasters, health epidemics, and economic
instability. The Republic of Cuba recognizes such dangers to be an issue for humanitarian
and United Nations personnel when it comes to protecting and aiding countries through
humanitarian crises. It is important to Cuba to continue implementing laws and
resolutions to strengthen coordination and assistance.
The Republic of Cuba has consistently received humanitarian aid from various countries in relation to natural disaster crises that continuously affect Cuba and its people. Cuba proposed a draft resolution to the issue of assisting humanitarian personnel during natural disasters which was outlined on December 8th, 2023. In addition to this, Cuba has received aid from the United States which also outlined Cuban Assets Control Regulations which provides protections and permissions to humanitarian personnel related to travel, transactional situations where there are humanitarian projects related to for example medical and health projects, and services to develop and maintain Cuban infrastructure. The Republic of Cuba proposes a policy to the United Nations in support of the safety and security of humanitarian personnel in the field of natural disasters. We support a proposal in which there is a clear outline of educating and supporting humanitarian personnel to ensure their safety and security whilst assisting struggling countries. This proposal would require there to be adequate funding dedicated to assisting personnel through natural disasters, which would work directly along with the Sendai Framework in order to continue efforts to support humanitarian personnel. Alongside this, there would be a strict guidance in educating on international humanitarian law in Cuba and other countries alongside the International Committee of the Red Cross. Essentially, the goal of this proposal is to outline the specific requirements for the protection of humanitarian personnel regarding monetary aid and educating on laws. | |
| Committee: | CCPCJ |
| Topic: | Equal access to justice for all |
| Paper text: | |
| The delegation of Cuba recognizes the importance of equal access to justice for all;
however,
we do not see a necessity for the United Nations to pass resolutions addressing this issue.
We believe that any such action could infringe upon the sovereignty of nations, and it is
ultimately the prerogative of each nation to determine its own approach to justice.
Nonetheless, we remain open to discussing these ideas and solutions as they arise. If we
deem them to be beneficial for the Cuban people.
Addressing the current issue, we wish to highlight that our country has successfully achieved justice for all through our own inquisitional judicial system, which enables us to process cases promptly and effectively. While we acknowledge the scrutiny that some countries have directed toward our judicial and legal system characterizing it as arbitrary, unlawful, and undemocratic. We would like to emphasize that our system is not democratic but socialist, resulting in a better quality of life than various other forms of government. Our judicial system is neither arbitrary nor unlawful; it upholds our laws to the highest standards. For any nation to claim otherwise simply reveals their own insecurities regarding their legal and judicial systems. It may be more productive for those nations to focus on improving their own systems for the benefit of their citizens. We the delegation of Cuba acknowledge the value of certain concepts related to justice for all, such as ensuring that trials are conducted swiftly and that the stateâs legal and judicial system operates efficiently. This includes expediting the judicial process so that punishments and sentences are carried out effectively, allowing for the timely resolution of cases. In conclusion, the delegation of Cuba is willing to consider the ideas presented on the issue of equal access to justice for all; however, we reserve the right to disagree and dismiss those ideas if we find them unsuitable for the needs of the Cuban people. Ultimately, it is Cuba that will determine what is best for our nation, not the Member States of the United Nations. | |
| Committee: | CCPCJ |
| Topic: | International cooperation in combating transnational organized crime and corruption |
| Paper text: | |
| The Republic of Cuba recognizes the growing threat posed by transnational organized
crime
and corruption and affirms its commitment to international cooperation in combating these
issues. As a State Party to the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized
Crime (UNTOC), Cuba upholds the principles of multilateralism and collective action. Our
government in Cuba has taken active measures to strengthen our legal frameworks, aligning
our own national policies with international standards, to work against illicit activities such as
but not limited to human trafficking, smuggling, and money laundering. Cuba supports
robust international mechanisms that enhance the capacity of states to investigate,
prosecute, and dismantle organized crime networks while ensuring respect for national
sovereignty and the non-interference in internal affairs.
For human trafficking and sex trafficking, Cuba has created many programs and helps support the creation of other groups within the Caribbean region. NGOs such as the Federation of Cuban Women (FMC), the Cuban Commission of Human Rights and National Reconciliation, the Prevention and Social Assistance Commission and the Committees for the Defense of the Revolution. Regarding small arms and weapons, policy makers in Cuba are working to create more strict policies to mitigate the traffic. The law in Cuba includes as a crime the manufacturing, possession, stockpiling and illicit trade of small arms and light weapons, imposing severe sanctions to those committing these crimes. Cuba also advocates for greater cooperation and the provision of technical assistance to developing countries in the fight against corruption. The Cuban delegation believes that the root causes of crime and corruption, such as inequality, poverty, and underdevelopment must be addressed through a holistic approach that includes international solidarity, capacity-building, and resource sharing. Furthermore, Cuba calls for a transparent and equitable global financial system, where developed nations take greater responsibility in regulating financial flows to prevent corruption and the illicit movement of capital. Cuba remains dedicated to collaborating with regional and international partners through forums such as the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) and the United Nations, to advance the global agenda on transnational crime and corruption. | |
| Committee: | WHA |
| Topic: | Global Strategy for Women's, Children's and Adolescents' Health |
| Paper text: | |
| Cuba has long been a champion of public health and social equity, emphasizing the rights
and well-being of women, children, and adolescents. The Global Strategy for Women's,
Children's and Adolescents' Health (2016-2030), launched by the World Health
Organization (WHO) and other UN bodies, aligns closely with Cuba's commitment to
comprehensive healthcare and social justice. This position paper outlines Cuba's
approach to the Global Strategy, highlighting our achievements, ongoing challenges, and
future commitments.
Cuba has many achievements in health care. Cuba's health system is characterized by its universal access, which ensures that all citizens, regardless of socioeconomic status, receive healthcare services. This aligns with the Global Strategy's emphasis on equitable health access. Cuba boasts some of the lowest maternal and infant mortality rates globally. This success is attributed to comprehensive prenatal and postnatal care, accessible family planning services, and strong community health initiatives that focus on education and prevention. Cuba has developed targeted programs addressing the health needs of adolescents, including sexual and reproductive health education, mental health services, and substance abuse prevention. These initiatives reflect our commitment to addressing the specific needs of young people as outlined in the Global Strategy. The Cuban government promotes a holistic approach to health that integrates education, social services, and community engagement. This strategy enhances health outcomes for women, children, and adolescents by addressing the social determinants of health. Cuba fully supports the Global Strategy's goals, particularly those focused on reducing maternal and child mortality, promoting gender equality, strengthening health systems and engaging communities. We continue to invest in maternal and child health programs, leveraging community health workers to provide care and education at the grassroots level. Cuba recognizes the importance of gender equality in health outcomes. Our policies promote women's empowerment through education and participation in the workforce, thereby improving their health and that of their families. We are committed to enhancing our health infrastructure to respond to emerging health challenges, ensuring that all segments of the population have access to quality health services. Community participation is central to our health initiatives. We engage local organizations, families, and young people in health promotion and decision-making processes, fostering ownership and sustainability of health programs. Despite our successes, Cuba faces challenges that impact the health of women, children, and adolescents. Ongoing economic difficulties hinder the full realization of health services. Continued support from international partners is crucial to maintain and expand our health initiatives. In addition, limited access to new technologies and treatments can affect health outcomes. Cuba advocates for equitable access to medicines and technologies as part of the Global Strategy's vision. Finally, while we have made progress, further efforts are needed to expand mental health services for adolescents, addressing the growing concerns of mental health issues among youth. Cuba is committed to collaborating with international partners, including WHO, UNICEF, and other relevant organizations, to enhance our efforts in line with the Global Strategy. We advocate for increased funding for health initiatives, knowledge sharing and advocacy for policy change. Financial support is essential for sustaining and expanding programs that benefit women, children, and adolescents. Cuba is willing to share its experiences and best practices with other countries, contributing to global learning and improvement in health outcomes. We support global advocacy efforts aimed at addressing the social determinants of health, promoting gender equality, and ensuring the rights of women, children, and adolescents are prioritized in national and international policies. Cuba's stance on the Global Strategy for Women's, Children's and Adolescents' Health is one of strong support and commitment. We believe that through continued investment, collaboration, and advocacy, we can make significant strides toward achieving the health and well-being of all women, children, and adolescents globally. Together, we can ensure that every individual has the opportunity to lead a healthy and fulfilling life. | |
| Committee: | WHA |
| Topic: | Public health dimension of the world drug problem |
| Paper text: | |
| The global south and the greater international community stand at a crossroads. The
inaction of the global north in violation of the shared mission of this assembly has led to a
deepening drug crisis across Latin America spreading into the Caribbean post-pandemic.
This is not a domestic or even regional issue, but a global one and a shared common
responsibility. While a rigorous effort to educate the public and our zero tolerance policy
along with a focus on prevention continue to curb the production, trafficking and use of
drugs within Cuba, this stands despite the economic, commercial and financial blockade
by the United States of America against Cuba and our arbitrary inclusion among the list of
states supporting terrorism, and against a greater trend within greater Latin America.
Drugs and crime in general have been politicized and even legalized within some states, in
opposition to the shared responsibility under international law and international charter.
Culture, education and family play key roles but above all it is a shared burden. As our
Vice Minister of the Ministry of Justice asserted earlier this year, we reaffirm Cuba's
political will to cooperate with the entire international community in the serious and real
efforts made in the battle against this problem.
Cuba is deeply concerned about the trafficking of illicit drugs due to the public health impacts of such substances. In our own country, there has been an increase in recent years (in drug consumption), and adolescents and young people represent the most vulnerable group. Relatedly, illegal drug use and violent crime, once rare in Cuba, are on the rise, making it difficult to impossible for the government to provide needed medicines or deliver in a timely manner the few food products that Cubans can still obtain through ration cards. Cuba maintains that it is not a transit zone for drugs, a producer of drugs nor a haven for illicit money, but through the economic crisis abetted by the global north such issues have become untenable and consumption of some substances has risen. We reaffirm our commitment to the three United Nations Drug conventions and urge further international cooperation against this issue. Further we wish to emphasize the will of Cuba to participate in such cooperation and the creation of societies free of illegal drugs in the pursuit of sustainable society. The Cuban government maintains 36 bilateral agreements for counterdrug cooperation and 27 for policing cooperation. Cuban authorities share tactical information related to vessels transiting Cuban territorial waters suspected of trafficking and coordinate responses. Such actions demonstrate affirmatively Cuba's commitment to playing its part in ending. | |
Back to the list of countries