A distinguished delegation from the International Peoples’ Assembly (IPA) is currently conducting an intensive fact-finding mission in Cuba to document the severe humanitarian consequences of the six-decade-long economic, commercial, and financial blockade imposed by the United States. The delegation, comprising representatives from Brazil, the United States, Zambia, Colombia, Italy, India, and Argentina, aims to gather firsthand evidence of how the sanctions have crippled essential sectors including healthcare, education, transportation, and food security.
João Pedro Stédile of Brazil’s Landless Rural Workers Movement articulated the mission’s primary objectives: expressing solidarity with the Cuban people and government, assessing the real-world impact of Washington’s policies, and developing concrete actions to counter the blockade. The delegation has already visited critical facilities including the Latin American School of Medicine and multiple hospitals, where they witnessed the acute shortage of medical supplies despite Cuba’s advanced healthcare system.
Brian Becker, leader of the US Party for Socialism and Liberation, highlighted the particular cruelty of medicine restrictions affecting even pediatric cancer patients. Fred M’membe, president of Zambia’s Socialist Party, emphasized that Cuba represents no threat beyond ‘the kindness of its people’ and recalled Africa’s profound gratitude for Cuba’s historical support against colonialism. The delegation plans to engage with both government officials and ordinary citizens before returning to their respective countries to mobilize international solidarity efforts.