Mr. President,
We thank the Special Rapporteur for her presentation and her report on funeral rites. It is a topic that is not often addressed, yet it is both relevant and necessary.
The profound impact of death is a universal human experience, making it essential to protect human rights regarding death and the honoring of the deceased.
We are concerned about the growing manifestations of religious discrimination in developed countries, including acts of Islamophobia. Hate speech must cease.
The Cuban Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of religion and belief without discrimination. The full exercise of this right is protected by our State.
Cuba has a great religious plurality. Catholicism, African-origin religions, Protestantism, Spiritism, Judaism, and Haitian Vodou, among others, coexist in harmony.
All beliefs and religions enjoy equal consideration. Their rites and customs are respected, including those related to honoring the deceased and mourning practices.
Acts of intolerance, discrimination, or violence based on religion are prohibited and sanctioned in Cuba.
Mr. President,
We reject the inclusion of Cuba in politically motivated lists prepared by the United States Government that unilaterally judge religious freedoms in other countries.
With such dishonest accusations, that government seeks to justify its indefensible and criminal economic war against the Cuban people.
We condemn the political manipulation of the right to freedom of religion or belief, or of any other human right.
Cuba reaffirms its commitment to religious freedom and multiculturalism, as well as its rejection of intolerance, stigmatization, violence, and any form of discrimination against individuals based on their religion or beliefs.
Thank you very much.