Press Release: Before Cuba's review at UN

Since on Februrary 5, 2009 the Universal Periodic Review of Cuba will take place at the United Nations Human Rights Council, the Center for the Opening and Development of Latin America (CADAL) addressed the Foreign Ministers of Argentina, Chile and Uruguay, member countries of the Council.

Since on Februrary 5, 2009 the Universal Periodic Review of Cuba will take place at the United Nations Human Rights Council, the Center for the Opening and Development of Latin America (CADAL) addressed the Foreign Ministers of Argentina, Chile and Uruguay, member countries of the Council with the following recommendations:

-Denounce the Cuba's legal norms that expressly violate Human Rights, like those in the Constitution, Criminal Code, Special Laws and sentences from the popular courts.

-Claim the Cuban government for the freedom of all the political prisoners, sentenced to long terms in prison for crimes that in the rest of Latin American countries are fundamental rights.

-Request the Cuban government to respect fundamental democratic liberties and the begining of a political opening allowing for a periodic renewal  of her authorities through free and multiparty elections.

CADAL also expressed to Foreign Ministers Jorge Taiana, from Argentina; Alejandro Foxley, from Chile; and Gonzalo Fernández, from Uruguay; that the existence of economic, social and cultural rights, requires them to be guaranteed by democratically elected governments, respectful political freedoms and civil rights. On this regard, Gabriel Salvia, CADAL's Chairman, concluded pointing out to the Foreign Ministers of the South Cone that "A democratic country can not highlight any kind of advancement in economic, social or cultural matters under a dictatorial political regime, being it left or right wing".