United Nations, New York, 9 September 2026. –Cuba reaffirmed this Wednesday that any structural transformation in the framework of the UN80 initiative should preserve the UN system’s operational continuity and institutional credibility, as well as strengthen its impact on the ground and respect countries’ priorities and domestic needs.
During the Second Regular Session of the UN Women Executive Board, Cuba’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Daylenis Moreno Guerra, noted that the reform proposals must preserve each entity's comparative advantages, as well as the multidimensional and integrated approach to development. She further emphasized that establishing new on-the-ground presences or assigning additional functions must fully align with the priorities of the States concerned.
Referring to a possible merger between UN Women and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the Cuban diplomat acknowledged that this option could bring economic benefits, but cautioned that it also entails significant risks, including greater instability in funding. At the same time, she noted that the conditions for making a final decision do not yet exist and advocated for the continuation of transparent and substantive consultations, without artificial deadlines that would compromise the deliberations of Member States.
Moreno Guerra reaffirmed that Cuba will continue to participate constructively in discussions on the UN80 Initiative, including those related to UN Women, in line with its commitment to the advancement of women, gender equality, social justice, and women’s empowerment.
The Deputy Permanent Representative also denounced the particularly cruel impact on Cuban women and girls of the economic, commercial, and financial blockade imposed by the United States, which has been intensified through the oil siege and the application of secondary sanctions. She noted that more than 32,880 pregnant women face difficulties accessing ultrasounds, specialized obstetric care, and medical transportation, while infant mortality rose from 4.0 to 9.9 per 1,000 live births between 2018 and 2025.
“These are not just cold statistics. Behind these figures are mothers, daughters, and families who are suffering,” Moreno Guerra emphasized. She warned that the blockade not only limits resources but also undermines human rights, affects health, and weighs heavily on people’s lives, with disproportionate consequences for women and girls.
She reiterated that the collective punishment against the Cuban people must end and reaffirmed that she will continue to demand an end to this policy, while maintaining her unwavering commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of all women.
Permanent Mission of Cuba to the United Nations