Human Rights First Condemns Arrests and Detention of Dissidents in Cuba

On April 14, 2003, Human Rights First issued a statement condemning the detention of around 80 political dissidents in Cuba, including human rights and democracy activists, journalists and directors of independent libraries. Having been tried on charges such as treason and subversion, many of those detained were sentenced in late March 2003 to terms of imprisonment of up to 28 years.

Excerpt from the statement:

“These dissidents are being arrested and prosecuted solely for their peaceful criticism of the Cuban government and their promotion of basic rights,” said Michael Posner, Human Rights First’s Executive Director. “The government must bring an end to this exploitation of the criminal justice system to persecute those who speak out against it.” Posner added that Cuba should recognize the crucial work performed by human rights defenders in the country and should ensure their protection, rather than arrest and harass them.

Read full text of statement.