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Urgent Appeal: Due Process for Cuban Dissidents

MONTREAL -  April 11, 2003 - Rights & Democracy is deeply concerned about the lack of transparency surrounding the recent arrests and trials of 78 Cuban dissidents.

Sentences ranging from six to 28 years were handed down this past week, following a massive crackdown on opposition groups and human rights defenders. It is particularly troubling that 28 journalists should be among those detained by Cuban authorities.

Rights & Democracy shares Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Bill Graham's belief that the harshness of the sentences could have a serious effect on the future of human rights, freedom of expression and democracy in Cuba. "It is regrettable that such dramatic measures be taken at a time of increasing openness and good will between Cuba and the international community of states. It is of vital importance to the Cuban people that this positive engagement not be squandered," Rights & Democracy's President Jean-Louis Roy said today.

The dissidents appear to be the victims of an escalating diplomatic conflict between Cuban President Fidel Castro's government and the US Special Interests Section in Havana. Nevertheless, Rights & Democracy believes the Cuban government must take responsibility for defusing the current crisis. Allegations of misconduct made by President Fidel Castro against Washington's diplomatic presence in Havana do not justify such draconian measures.

Rights & Democracy calls on Cuban President Fidel Castro to provide the international community with a full and detailed disclosure of the proceedings thus far. The Cuban government must also ensure that the accused benefit from an adequate defence in the appeal of their cases.

Rights & Democracy urges the Cuban government to seek a constructive dialogue with the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, and arrange to receive the High Commissioner's personal representative Ms. Christine Chanet.

Rights & Democracy urges the Canadian government to press for a fair and prompt appeal process. Canada should request that Canadian Embassy observers be allowed to attend the proceedings.

Rights & Democracy is a non-partisan, independent Canadian institution created by an Act of Parliament in 1988 to promote, advocate and defend the democratic and human rights set out in the International Bill of Human Rights. In cooperation with civil society and governments in Canada and abroad, Rights & Democracy initiates and supports programmes to strengthen laws and democratic institutions, principally in developing countries.

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