The Bahamas government has rejected allegations of forced labor related to Cuban medical missions, asserting compliance with constitutional laws. Prime Minister Phillip Davis emphasized the nation’s commitment to law and ethical practices while responding to increased scrutiny from U.S. policies targeting Cuba’s labor programs. CARICOM leaders support the Cuban medical programs, underscoring their importance for regional healthcare development.
The government of The Bahamas has decisively dismissed allegations of forced labor associated with the Cuban health brigade system, which several Caribbean Community (CARICOM) nations have commended for enhancing regional healthcare services. Prime Minister Phillip Davis articulated this stance during the RF Bahamas Economic Outlook Conference, emphasizing that such practices contradict the country’s constitution, which forbids any form of forced labor.
Davis asserted, “Our laws, starting from our constitution, prohibit that kind of engagement. This government will never or intend to engage in any forced labour. It’s against our laws…” He acknowledged the need to conduct a review of their practices to ensure conformity with legal standards, maintaining their position that no forced labor is currently in practice.
This statement follows intensified scrutiny after U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced an expansion of U.S. visa restrictions aimed at individuals linked to Cuba’s labor export program, which the U.S. contends includes forced labor elements. Rubio highlighted that the restrictions will apply to current and former officials implicated in these operations, especially related to overseas medical missions from Cuba.
CARICOM leaders, such as those from Antigua and Barbuda, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago, have publicly supported the Cuban medical missions, indicating their vital role in improving healthcare across the Caribbean. Additionally, Grenada’s Foreign Minister reaffirmed the country’s commitment to Cuba, citing a moral and ethical obligation to sustain their cooperative partnership.
At a recent meeting, U.S. official Claver-Carone explained that the new measures are part of a comprehensive international policy affecting other nations, including Italy and Qatar. He emphasized the need for Cuban doctors to have the ability to negotiate fair wages and working conditions according to International Labour Organization (ILO) standards.
The Bahamas has actively recruited Cuban healthcare professionals to bolster its medical sector. Foreign Minister Fred Mitchell assured that The Bahamas’ recruitment practices are being evaluated against international best practices, reinforcing their adherence to legal standards. Despite ongoing diplomatic tensions, CARICOM nations have shown unwavering support for the Cuban medical mission program, affirming their dedication to regional collaboration and health development.
The Bahamas government has firmly refuted claims of engaging in forced labor within the Cuban medical brigade system. Prime Minister Phillip Davis emphasized adherence to constitutional laws prohibiting such practices. Amid scrutiny from U.S. policies targeting Cuba’s labor programs, CARICOM leaders continue to advocate for the beneficial impact of Cuban medical missions on regional healthcare. The Bahamas remains confident in its recruitment practices and commitment to international standards.
Original Source: www.caribbeannationalweekly.com
