Cuba has reaffirmed its commitment to combating human trafficking through a "Zero Tolerance" policy, as detailed in its National Report on Preventing and Confronting Trafficking in Persons and Protecting Victims for 2022. This report outlines a national action plan for 2022-2024, emphasizing coordinated efforts between the state and civil society organizations. The plan includes cooperation with international bodies such as INTERPOL and the United Nations to effectively address trafficking issues. Specialized care is provided to victims, particularly vulnerable groups like children, women, and individuals with disabilities. In 2022, authorities prosecuted six cases related to human trafficking, involving underage victims, with sentences ranging from three to 20 years of imprisonment for the perpetrators. These actions reflect Cuba's dedication to upholding human rights and social justice.
Despite these efforts, the U.S. Department of State's 2023 Trafficking in Persons Report maintains Cuba at the highest alert level (Tier 3), indicating that the government does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking and is not making significant efforts to do so. The report highlights concerns over Cuba's labor export programs, particularly the foreign medical missions, which have been criticized for conditions that may amount to forced labor. The report recommends that the Cuban government ensure these programs comply with international labor standards or terminate them.
In September 2023, Cuba's Ministry of the Interior reported the dismantling of a human trafficking network operating from Russia, which aimed to recruit Cuban citizens to fight in Ukraine. The network was reportedly recruiting individuals both within Cuba and among Cuban nationals residing in Russia. The Cuban government emphasized its firm stance against the use of mercenaries and its non-involvement in the conflict in Ukraine.
These developments underscore the ongoing challenges Cuba faces in addressing human trafficking, balancing national policies with international scrutiny, and ensuring the protection of its citizens from exploitation.