February 26, 2025– The Foundation for Human Rights in Cuba (FHRC) strongly supports the U.S. Department of State’s announcement on February 25, 2025, expanding visa restrictions to address forced labor tied to the Cuban labor export program. This policy, outlined by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, targets current and former Cuban government officials, as well as other individuals—including foreign government officials—involved in or responsible for the exploitative practices of Cuba’s overseas labor programs, particularly its medical missions. The measure also extends to the immediate family members of those implicated.
For years, the Cuban regime has profited from the forced labor of its citizens, including through overseas medical missions that not only exploit Cuban workers but also deprive the Cuban people of critical healthcare services at home. The FHRC has long documented and condemned these coercive practices, which enrich the regime while subjecting Cuban professionals to inhumane working conditions and withholding their rightful earnings.
“We commend the United States for taking decisive action to hold accountable those who perpetuate this modern form of slavery,” said Tony Costa, President of the FHRC. “This expansion of visa restrictions sends a clear message: the international community will not tolerate the exploitation of Cuban workers for the benefit of a repressive regime. We also welcome the inclusion of foreign officials complicit in these schemes, as it underscores the global nature of this injustice.”
The FHRC urges other nations to join the United States in condemning and countering Cuba’s labor export programs. Promoting accountability for those involved—whether Cuban officials or their international accomplices—is a vital step toward justice for the Cuban people and an end to these abusive practices.
Foundation for Human Rights in Cuba (FHRC) Applauds U.S. Expansion of Visa Restrictions Targeting Exploitation of Cuban Labor
