US Calls on Cuba to Stop Impeding Freedom of Expression, Release Imprisoned Journalists
US Intervention at the UPR of Cuba
16th Session May 1, 2013
As Delivered by Eileen Chamberlain Donahoe
The United States is concerned that Cuba has put in place a wide, complex web of constitutional, statutory, and regulatory provisions and practices that impede those who seek, through peaceful means, reforms in favor of multiparty elections, freedom of expression and freedom of the press.
For example, journalists have been imprisoned for reporting on mismanagement and corruption.
Alan Gross was sentenced to prison for providing uncensored Internet access.
And, we are especially concerned by the untimely death of Oswaldo Paya last summer.
We recommend:
- Eliminate or cease enforcing laws impeding freedom of expression;
- Release Alan Gross and imprisoned journalists such as Jose Antonio Torres immediately;
- Allow for an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths of Oswaldo Paya and Harold Cepero.