ISHR demands the immediate release of over 1,200 political prisoners in Cuba

On the occasion of Cuban Independence Day, which marks its 124th anniversary on May 20, the International Society for Human Rights (ISHR) paints a bleak picture: the country is mired in the worst crisis of its recent history. The human rights and supply situation is catastrophic and worsening daily. The population and political prisoners alike are suffering from malnutrition, while dissidents continue to be thrown into prison. According to former political prisoner José Daniel Ferrer, more than 1,200 political prisoners are currently subjected to “inhumane, truly hellish conditions” in detention.
José Daniel Ferrer, founder of the patriotic citizens’ movement UNPACU, recently described the current situation to the ISHR as “the most severe crisis in Cuba’s recent history.” Ferrer, who has faced years of repression and imprisonment, emphasized that the crisis is rooted in the systematic denial of fundamental freedoms.

“Democratic change in Cuba is not just necessary – it is urgent,” the civil rights activist declared.

Continued Repression of Relatives

The ISHR reports ongoing reprisals against the relatives of political prisoners. In May 2026, Saylí Navarro was punished at the La Bellotex women’s prison in Matanzas after she spoke out about the abuse of her father, political prisoner Félix Navarro, at the Agüica prison. He was reportedly attacked by a prison guard and placed in solitary confinement. Following her disclosure, Saylí Navarro was stripped of previously granted sentence reductions. The ISHR demands the immediate release of both prisoners of conscience.

Arbitrary Detention and Inhumane Prison Conditions

Thousands of Cubans face political persecution, arbitrary detention, and inhumane prison conditions simply for peacefully expressing dissenting opinions. According to a report by Prisoners Defenders, 447 political prisoners are suffering from severe health issues. An additional 34 prisoners are considered to be at immediate risk, including minors, mothers, and the critically ill.

Call for Political Consequences

The ISHR is calling on European governments to fundamentally review their relations with the Cuban regime. Political and economic cooperation agreements, such as the Political Dialogue and Cooperation Agreement (PDCA), cannot be maintained with a government that oppresses its own people and denies them basic freedoms, the ISHR stated.