health
‘A sudden gap’: poorest to suffer from Trump’s drive to stop Cuba sending doctors to its neighbours
People across Latin America and the Caribbean find themselves without care as countries bow to US pressure
TL;DR
- Several countries in Latin America and the Caribbean have terminated medical agreements with Cuba under US pressure.
- The US claims the Cuban medical program involves "forced labor," while Cuba asserts it's an economic tactic to force regime change.
- The withdrawal of Cuban doctors disproportionately affects the poorest and most underserved communities.
- Countries ending the agreements, such as Jamaica, Guatemala, and Honduras, are experiencing healthcare gaps.
- Mexico remains a point of resistance, with its president stating Cuban doctors are of "great help."
- The Cuban medical program has been a significant source of revenue for Cuba since its inception in 1960.
- Testimonies from former participants and international organizations offer conflicting views on whether the program constitutes forced labor or a voluntary contribution.