U.N. calls on U.S. to end embargo on Cuba that has blocked access to essential resources for decades

The General Assembly of the United Nations has once again brought together representatives of states to discuss the long-standing embargo imposed by the United States on Cuba in recent days. With a large majority of votes, a resolution calling for the immediate lifting of this embargo was once again adopted, which has become one of the longest sanctions regimes in modern history. This measure, which has been in place since the early 1960s, has almost completely isolated Cuba on a global economic level, restricting its access to markets, trade partners, and essential resources necessary for the stable development of the economy. The embargo is referred to in discussions as a form of "economic aggression" that has hampered Cuba's growth for decades and affected all segments of its society.

How the embargo affects the daily life of Cubans

The embargo has significantly hindered the lives of ordinary citizens in Cuba over the years. According to representatives from Cuba at the UN, the embargo does not only block trade but also access to healthcare, food products, and basic necessities. For example, due to the inability to freely import medicines, many patients with chronic diseases are left without appropriate therapies. Representatives from Caribbean and Latin American countries have noted that the inhumanity of such an embargo is particularly visible in moments of global health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, when Cuba was unable to import respirators and other essential medical devices. In such situations, the embargo is not only an economic measure but also an obstacle that calls into question basic human rights and the right to life. Additionally, due to limited access to markets, Cubans are forced to resort to alternative and often more expensive methods of obtaining basic necessities, further exacerbating an already difficult economic situation.

International pressure on the USA due to the embargo

During the debate at the General Assembly, numerous member states reiterated their call for the United States to end the embargo and allow Cuba free trade and access to global financial institutions. Vietnam, China, Russia, and a number of other countries emphasized that the embargo violates the principles of sovereign equality, which is one of the fundamental principles of the United Nations Charter. A representative from Brazil highlighted that sanctions contradict the goals of sustainable development and that it is important to allow Cuba access to international aid so that the country can improve its capacities in agriculture, education, and healthcare. The United Nations has been adopting resolutions calling for the lifting of this embargo for years, but the United States continues to reject these calls, citing a desire for democratization in Cuba and the protection of human rights for Cubans as reasons. However, critics argue that such a policy actually makes life difficult for ordinary people while simultaneously not contributing to political stability.

Cuba's recognition for international aid

Despite the embargo, Cuba has maintained its position as an international leader in providing medical assistance to other countries over the years. During the pandemic, Cuban doctors provided medical aid to numerous countries around the world, including those hardest hit by the crisis. Many countries in the discussion pointed out that Cuba's approach demonstrated the importance of multilateralism and international cooperation, emphasizing that the embargo prevents Cuba from further developing its medical and scientific capacities. Representatives of African nations particularly praised Cuba's contributions to the development of healthcare systems in Africa, and it was noted that lifting the embargo would allow for additional programs and collaborations that would benefit the entire international community.

The USA defends its policy

American representatives at the UN argue that the sanctions aim to encourage democratic reforms in Cuba and support the aspirations of Cubans for freedom and prosperity. They state that the embargo includes certain exceptions, such as for humanitarian shipments of food and medicines, but add that the policy toward Cuba is focused on protecting human rights. Critics believe that this stance is not in line with the actual effects of the embargo, and that the embargo primarily impacts ordinary citizens. Although the United States and Cuba re-established diplomatic relations in 2015, economic sanctions remain in place, and the USA still lists Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism. This measure further complicates Cuba's economic relations with other countries and poses an obstacle to greater integration of Cuba into the global economic system.

Increase in supporters for lifting the embargo

According to recent statistics, the majority of UN member states support lifting the embargo, and this year's resolution passed with an overwhelming majority of votes in the General Assembly. Many countries believe that the embargo represents an "anachronism of Cold War politics" that no longer has a place in the modern world. The embargo not only blocks economic exchange but also prevents Cuba from achieving sustainable development goals and reducing poverty. Additionally, delegates emphasized that the embargo contributes to global shortages, particularly in food and energy sectors, and that lifting the embargo is crucial for the stability of international markets and addressing food insecurity issues. This argument gains weight considering the current global challenges, including the growing food shortages and energy crises.

Final thought on the long-lasting embargo

While the United States remains determined in its policy toward Cuba, the international community is increasingly calling for the lifting of the embargo. The UN General Assembly will continue to be a platform where this topic is reopened year after year, and pressure on the USA is rising. Although the embargo on Cuba has occasionally changed through various phases, the underlying problems it creates remain unchanged. Cuba continues to suffer the consequences in almost all sectors of its economy, and its ability to cope with global challenges, such as pandemics and natural disasters, remains significantly diminished due to economic restrictions. Therefore, many experts and international actors believe that lifting the embargo would not only contribute to Cuba's prosperity but also strengthen the global sense of solidarity and cooperation, which are the key goals of the United Nations themselves.