For over six decades, the United States of America (USA) imposed economic embargo, isolation, and propaganda policies against the people and government of Cuba. The rhetoric and doubling-down approach from President Donald Trump and his Secretary of State, Senator Marco Rubio, are naked colonial and neocolonial utterances and actions that will further harm Cuba and other democracies that refuse to bow to the USA’s narrow and isolationist neoliberal tendencies. African workers reject and condemn these policies and actions.

African workers are deeply concerned that these policies have led to worsening socio-economic conditions affecting Cuban workers, families, community, and economy. Prolonged economic restrictions continue to limit access to energy, essential goods, and development opportunities. Working people bear the heaviest burden, facing declining living standards, insecurity, and weakened social protection.

ITUC-Africa reaffirms its commitment to genuine democracy, peace, freedom, sovereignty, multilateralism, and self-determination. These actions against Cuba by the United States of America are antithetical to democracy. The use of brute power and scorched earth strategy by a global superpower to remotely control, coerce, or punish nations — while millions of innocent people suffer — is morally indefensible. Workers, families, and vulnerable communities must never become victims of geopolitical disputes.

Economic strangulation and coercive measures shift suffering onto ordinary people who hold no responsibility for political disagreements. When policies deepen poverty, restrict essential needs, and erode human dignity, they violate justice, solidarity, and our shared humanity. Political objectives must never come at the expense of innocent populations. This is the politics of aggression, chauvinism, and naked oppression. Cuba deserves the right to self-determination and a political system overwhelmingly preferred by most Cubans. End the embargo NOW!

ITUC-Africa calls on the International Community to end its dangerous silence and speak up for international law and order. We also call for humanitarian cooperation, constructive dialogue, diplomacy, and peaceful engagement. Access to energy, healthcare, food, and essential goods must be protected as foundations of human rights, social protection, and economic productivity.

Workers across Africa stand shoulder to shoulder with the Cuban people, workers, families, and government in their struggle for dignity, justice, peace, freedom, and social progress.

Issued on the 14th Day of February 2026 in Lome, Togo
Akhator Joel ODIGIE
General Secretary