Foundation NewGeneration
July 13, 2025
Four years ago, on July 11, 2021, the Cuban people took to the streets in the largest anti-government protests seen in over six decades. From small towns to major cities, thousands of citizens demanded freedom, dignity, and an end to a repressive regime that has condemned generations to fear, poverty, and exile. That day marked a turning point: a nation silenced for so long finally raised its voice — and the world was watching.
At the Foundation NewGeneration, we pay tribute to the brave Cubans who stood up on that historic day. Tragically, many of them remain imprisoned, subjected to arbitrary trials, torture, and inhumane conditions. Young people barely out of adolescence, artists, activists, and ordinary citizens — punished simply for demanding rights that are fundamental in any democratic society.
The events of July 11 did not bring reform. On the contrary, the regime responded with brutal repression, sweeping arrests, internet blackouts, and a policy of forced exile. Far from opening up, Cuba’s dictatorship has entrenched itself deeper.
The Strategic Error of Europe’s Permissiveness
Over the past four years, the international response has been, at best, insufficient — and in many cases, complicit. Especially within Europe, some democratic governments have prioritized economic interests and misguided strategies of engagement with the Cuban regime. There remains a persistent and dangerous illusion: that increasing trade, investment, and diplomatic openness with Havana will encourage political liberalization or distance Cuba from its historical alliance with Moscow.
Reality has shown the opposite.
Since 2022, Cuba has actively supported Russia’s invasion of Ukraine — not only with diplomatic backing in international forums, but also through logistical cooperation, online disinformation efforts, and reports of Cuban personnel supporting Russian military operations. The Cuban regime has doubled down on its strategic alignment with the Kremlin, reinforcing an authoritarian axis that poses a serious threat to global democratic values.
Meanwhile, European investments in Cuba — made without human rights conditions — have served only to strengthen the regime’s repressive apparatus. These resources have not empowered Cuban citizens; they have financed surveillance, censorship, and propaganda.
A Call to Democratic Europe: Action, Not Words
The Foundation NewGeneration urgently calls on European democracies to reassess their approach toward Cuba. A foreign policy based on values cannot coexist with silence in the face of tyranny. Supporting the Cuban people means more than expressions of concern. It requires meaningful action:
Suspend all cooperation and trade agreements with the Cuban regime that lack enforceable human rights clauses.
Recognize and engage directly with Cuba’s independent civil society, which remains under constant attack.
Support the families of political prisoners and human rights defenders on the island.
Condition all diplomatic engagement on measurable improvements in civil and political freedoms — starting with the unconditional release of all July 11 protesters.
The Legacy of July 11 and the Path Forward
The uprising on July 11 was not a spontaneous event. It was the culmination of years of pain, injustice, and disillusionment — but also of courage and hope. It signaled the rise of a new generation that refuses to live in fear. A generation that does not seek exile but transformation.
Four years later, the cry of Patria y Vida — Homeland and Life — still echoes across the island. The repression has been cruel, but it has not extinguished the desire for change. And as long as Cubans continue to resist, we will continue to stand with them.
At the Foundation NewGeneration, we remain committed to this struggle. We will amplify their voices, denounce every injustice, and urge the democratic world not to turn away.
Cuba does not need concessions to the regime.
Cuba needs solidarity with its people.
#11JCuba #CubaLibre #PatriaYVida #FreeCubanPrisoners #StopImpunity #NewGeneration
