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UN High Commissioner Alarmed by Socio-Economic Crisis in Cuba

Published February 13, 2026, 14:16
UN High Commissioner Alarmed by Socio-Economic Crisis in Cuba

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights has expressed serious concern about the deteriorating socio-economic situation in Cuba, which is facing a critical energy crisis due to pressure from the United States. High Commissioner Volker Türk called on all states to lift unilateral measures, given their negative impact on the population. The High Commissioner stresses that political goals cannot justify actions that violate human rights. Furthermore, the sanctions are causing economic hardship and hindering the state's ability to meet the basic needs of its citizens, increasing the risk of social unrest. The situation has worsened due to the disruption of oil supplies from Venezuela and US threats of tariffs on countries exporting oil to Cuba. The High Commissioner warns that the lack of fuel threatens the operation of health, food and water systems, restricting access to essential goods and services, which violates human rights.