European Parliament
Jonas Sjöstedt (GUE/NGL ),
in writing
I have voted in favour of the proposed resolution on Cuba, even though it is missing several important facts in the political context.
The main problem in the Cuban situation is caused by the US-lead blockade and the aggressive US threats against Cuba.
Putting an end to the blockade and stopping the aggressive threats by the US would be the most important step in creating an atmosphere in which there would be better possibilities to create a true democracy in Cuba.
But the aggressive US policy is not the only reason for the severe restrictions on freedom of expression and democracy in Cuba. The Cuban government also has its own individual responsibility to bear.
One example, among others, is the decision not to let the Sakharov prize-winners, the
Damas de Blanco
, leave the country to receive the prize in Strasbourg.
I am voting in favour of the resolution, despite its imperfections, since I want to protest against the Cuban government’s travel ban on the
Damas de Blanco

