The Cuban writer Adriana Normand, known for her work in independent media, recently denounced that she is “regulated,” a measure that prevents her leaving the country under the pretext of “public interest.”
The author reported on her social networks that, when trying to process her passport at an office in Havana, she was denied service without additional explanation beyond this regulation.
“Today, in an office in charge of issuing passports, I was denied the procedure for preparing it. “I am regulated by public interest.”he wrote on his Facebook profile.
This is just one of the cases that has increased concern about the repression of journalists and writers in Cuba.
In October, this Cuban writer had already had to publicly renounce her collaboration with the independent press, as part of a series of repressive measures that the Cuban regime intensified against those who are in charge of telling the truth.
Díaz Rodríguez’s attempt to reach the United States was thwarted when Nicaraguan authorities denied him entry, a clear reflection of the complicity between the Cuban and Nicaraguan regimes to restrict the freedom of dissidents.
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The Castro dictatorship continues to use regulation as a tool to silence those who do not align with its absurd narrative.
Censorship, along with intimidation and harassment, has made journalists and writers the target of violence, with the aim of stifling any form of dissent and maintaining power in every way.
Editorial of Cubans around the World
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How can individuals support Cuban journalists facing government censorship?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Expert on Cuban Media Repression
Time.news Editor: Today, we’re diving into the troubling situation surrounding independent journalism in Cuba, particularly focusing on the recent case of writer Adriana Normand. Joining us is Dr. Elena Torres, a renowned expert on media repression in Latin America. Dr. Torres, thank you for being here.
Dr. Elena Torres: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss such an important topic.
Time.news Editor: Let’s start with the news. Adriana Normand recently revealed that she has been “regulated”, preventing her from leaving Cuba. What does this term mean in the context of Cuban law, and why is it being used against her?
Dr. Elena Torres: “Regulated” is a euphemism that the Cuban government uses to denote individuals who are restricted from traveling abroad. This measure is often cloaked in the excuse of “public interest,” but in reality, it serves to silence dissent and control the narrative. Journalists and writers, like Normand, who are seen as threats to the regime’s image or stability, often face such restrictions.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned that this isn’t an isolated incident. What’s the broader context of media repression in Cuba, especially regarding independent journalists?
Dr. Elena Torres: The repression of independent journalists in Cuba has escalated significantly in recent years. What we are witnessing is part of a systematic campaign by the Cuban government to stifle dissent and control information. In October, Normand also had to renounce her collaboration with independent media, which is a tactic many journalists have been forced to adopt. The regime appears to be intensifying its crackdown on those who seek to report the truth.
Time.news Editor: Given these circumstances, how do you think this impacts the freedom of expression in Cuba?
Dr. Elena Torres: The implications are dire. When writers and journalists face threats, intimidation, or outright censorship, it creates a chilling effect on freedom of expression. It discourages others from speaking out or reporting on critical issues. The lack of independent voices makes it easier for the government to propagate its narrative unchallenged.
Time.news Editor: Normand took to social media to share her experience. How effective do you think social media is for independent journalists in countries like Cuba?
Dr. Elena Torres: Social media can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it provides a platform for individuals like Normand to voice their experiences and reach a wider audience, both domestically and internationally. On the other hand, it also exposes them to increased surveillance and retaliation from the government. Nevertheless, many independent journalists continue to use these platforms as a means to circumvent traditional media restrictions.
Time.news Editor: What can the international community do to support journalists like Normand who are facing repression?
Dr. Elena Torres: The international community can play a vital role by amplifying the voices of these journalists, calling attention to their plight, and applying diplomatic pressure on the Cuban government to respect human rights and freedom of expression. Additionally, supporting organizations that advocate for press freedom and providing a safe haven for exiled journalists can also make a difference.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Torres, for providing such valuable insights into this critical issue. We hope for a future where journalists in Cuba can report freely without fear of repression.
Dr. Elena Torres: Thank you for shedding light on this important topic. It’s crucial that we continue to advocate for press freedom, not just in Cuba but globally.