The Caribbean Community (Caricom) is preparing to take a unified stance against recent US sanctions targeting countries that participate in Cuba’s international medical cooperation program. This development comes in response to the US State Department’s announcement on February 26, 2025, of expanded visa restrictions related to Cuba’s medical missions abroad.

Key points:

1. US Sanctions: Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced an expansion of visa restrictions for Cuban government officials involved in the medical brigade program, as well as foreign government officials connected to it.
2. Caricom’s Response: The regional bloc is formulating a collective approach to address these sanctions, which could potentially affect several Caribbean nations that benefit from Cuban medical assistance.
3. Impact on Healthcare: The sanctions threaten to undermine crucial healthcare services in many Caribbean countries, particularly those with underserved communities.
4. Cuban Medical Cooperation: Cuba has sent over 600,000 doctors worldwide throughout the history of its medical cooperation initiative, with a significant presence in Caribbean nations.
5. Criticism of US Policy: Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel condemned the US move, questioning how attacking Cuban medical services enhances international health outcomes.
6. Historical Context: Cuba’s medical brigades have been instrumental in providing healthcare in the region, especially during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic and natural disasters.
7. Potential Consequences: The sanctions could disrupt long-standing healthcare partnerships between Cuba and various Caribbean nations, potentially leaving gaps in medical services.

Caricom’s unified stand aims to protect the region’s healthcare systems and maintain the beneficial relationships with Cuban medical professionals that have been crucial in addressing healthcare needs across the Caribbean.