The WCC welcomed the U.S. decision to remove Cuba’s designation as a state sponsor of terrorism, hoping it will ease hardships for the Cuban people. This action follows years of advocacy for lifting economic sanctions, which have negatively impacted Cuba’s economy and access to international trade. The WCC urges global collaboration to promote improvement in the lives of Cubans.
The World Council of Churches (WCC) expressed its approval of the United States’ decision to revoke Cuba’s designation as a state sponsor of terrorism. WCC General Secretary Rev. Dr. Jerry Pillay articulated that this decision is expected to alleviate the hardships faced by the Cuban populace, which have been intensified by the previous designation and embargo. He invited the international community to seize this moment to enhance the living conditions and future opportunities for Cubans.
Cuba was classified as a State Sponsor of Terrorism by the Reagan administration in 1982, primarily due to its alleged support for communist insurgencies and terrorist factions across Latin America and Africa. This classification imposed severe economic sanctions on Cuba, restricting foreign aid, defense exports, and financial transactions.
The WCC has long advocated for an end to the economic, commercial, and financial embargoes against Cuba, supporting churches as vital voices for peace, hope, cooperation, and respect among nations. During its 11th Assembly in 2022, the WCC formally petitioned for Cuba’s removal from the terrorism sponsors list.
Significant developments in U.S.-Cuba relations began in December 2014, when President Barack Obama initiated steps towards normalization, culminating in the rescission of Cuba’s terrorism designation in 2015. However, in January 2021, just prior to the conclusion of his term, President Donald Trump re-designated Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism.
The WCC’s 11th Assembly statement was titled “The Things That Make For Peace: Moving the World to Reconciliation and Unity.”
The WCC commends the U.S. action of lifting Cuba’s terrorism designation, which they believe will improve the economic conditions for Cubans. This historical move is framed within ongoing support for Cuba, advocating against longstanding sanctions. The WCC emphasizes the importance of international cooperation to build a better future for the Cuban people, reinforcing calls to eliminate economic restraints that hinder development.
Original Source: www.oikoumene.org
