New York, May 7, 2026 – During the general debate of the Second Review Forum on International Migration, held this Wednesday, Cuba’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Ernesto Soberón Guzmán, reaffirmed Cuba’s commitment to safe, orderly, and regular migration while denouncing the structural causes that aggravate migration flows globally.
In his remarks, the Cuban diplomat underscored that migration cannot be analyzed in isolation, as it is a direct consequence of underdevelopment, inequality, unilateral coercive measures, and an unjust international economic order. He also warned of the setbacks in the international migratory landscape since the adoption of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration eight years ago.
The Ambassador denounced the rise in racism, xenophobia, and discrimination against migrants, particularly in developed countries, where—he stressed—those who migrate out of economic necessity are criminalized. At the same time, selective policies that favor the migration of highly skilled workers are promoted, deepening the human decapitalization of developing countries.
On behalf of Cuba, he reiterated the country’s commitment to the goals of the Global Compact and highlighted the measures adopted to favor regular and safe migration flows, including the updating of the Migration Law, initiatives directed at Cubans residing abroad, and the presentation of the voluntary national report on the implementation of the Compact.
Cuba’s Permanent Representative further denounced that the economic, commercial, and financial blockade imposed by the United States Government has intensified through an energy siege on fuel supply, which he identified as the main driver behind the increase in Cuba’s migration potential. He stated that this policy seeks to create discouragement and scarcity among the Cuban population, violating their human rights and directly encouraging irregular migration.
In closing, Ambassador Soberón Guzmán reaffirmed that, while migration policies fall within the sovereign exercise of States, the effective implementation of the Global Compact demands dialogue, genuine cooperation, and shared responsibility. Cuba renewed its willingness to continue working at the national level and alongside the international community to promote safe, orderly, and regular migration.
Permanent Mission of Cuba to the United Nations