Cuban NGO denounces "repression by association" as systematic human rights violation

The NGO Cubalex has denounced the systematic use of "repression by association" in Cuba, a practice where dissidents or activists are punished through state pressure on their families and friends. The organization states this constitutes a violation of human rights.

Cubalex explained that this is not an isolated occurrence but a "systematic and selective repressive pattern" that weaponizes family, emotional, and community ties for state pressure. The NGO has identified cases where authorities target direct relatives of dissidents, activists, independent journalists, human rights defenders, and exiles. In some instances, the penal system is used as a retaliatory mechanism.

The organization specifically cited the cases of Jordania Pérez Quevedo, sister of political prisoner Yanet Pérez Quevedo, and Wendy Campuzano, daughter of Armando Campuzano, who received a two-year prison sentence. Cubalex stated the goal is to indirectly punish targeted individuals, weaken their support networks, prevent the spread of complaints, and extend the consequences of dissent to their families, social circles, or communities.

Cubalex emphasized that repression by association infringes upon fundamental rights recognized by international human rights law and even violates Cuban legality. The NGO believes this practice could constitute crimes such as abuse of authority, improper execution of sanctions or security measures, prevarication, and denial of aid. Identifying and denouncing this pattern, Cubalex concluded, is crucial for combating impunity, protecting victims, and acknowledging a form of political persecution that affects not only those who speak out but also those who support or are simply connected to them.

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La finalidad es castigar indirectamente a personas señaladas, debilitar sus redes de apoyo, impedir la circulación de denuncias y extender las consecuencias de la disidencia al entorno familiar, social o comunitario