The number of femicides in Cuba has risen to 28 before the end of the first half of 2024, following the confirmation of three additional gender-based murders by independent feminist platforms within a span of just 72 hours.
The gender violence observatories YoSíTeCreo en Cuba (YSTCC) and Alas Tensas (OGAT) confirmed three new femicide cases between June 14 and June 16, urging authorities to implement "preventive measures to protect the lives of women and other individuals affected by femicidal violence."
The platforms verified the femicide of Liset Quesada Romero, 33, who was murdered by her partner on June 14 in Bejucal, Mayabeque. This information came to light through social media denunciations from those close to the victim.
"Our condolences go out to her two minor children from a previous relationship, who survive her, as well as to her other family members and friends," the organizations emphasized.
They also lamented the femicide of Jessica Castillo, 32, on June 15 in Pinar del Río, extending sympathies to her three young children and other family members. Jessica was killed by her partner, who was on conditional release despite a history of femicidal violence.
YSTCC and OGAT urged the public to "avoid the re-victimization seen on social media against Jessica, as no justification exists for taking another person's life, nor for the responsibility of penitentiary institutions in granting conditional release without proper protocols."
The third verified case was that of Alba Delia Sánchez Benítez, 58, murdered on June 16 by her ex-partner while she was at her workplace, the student residence Dr. Fermín Valdés Domínguez in Cotorro, Havana.
Regarding this last crime, which occurred in a state entity, the statement was clear: "We expect appropriate measures to be taken for the serious security lapse at that institution, which facilitated the femicide of Alba Delia and endangered students under state responsibility."
The observatories extended condolences to Sánchez's two children, her other family members and friends, as well as her work colleagues and students, who mourn her loss on social media and remember her cheerful and jovial disposition.
In addition to the 28 femicides committed so far, YSTCC and OGAT have reported three attempted femicides, six cases requiring police investigation, and the gender-based murder of a man. They are also investigating four alerts from the provinces of Havana, Artemisa, Granma, and Cienfuegos.
The Cuban feminist platforms, dedicated to women's rights and protection, recorded 220 femicides on the island from 2019 to March of this year, including 89 in 2023. However, according to official government data, 117 femicides were committed between January and October of last year, a figure higher than the number of violent deaths of women recorded by independent feminist groups in Cuba.
Key Questions About Femicide in Cuba
Given the alarming rise in femicides in Cuba, it is crucial to address several pressing questions. These questions and their answers aim to provide a clearer understanding of the current situation and the actions needed to combat this crisis.
What measures are being called for to prevent femicides in Cuba?
Independent feminist platforms are urging the authorities to implement preventive measures to protect women and other individuals affected by femicidal violence.
How many femicides have been recorded by independent observatories in Cuba for 2024?
As of the first half of 2024, 28 femicides have been recorded by independent observatories in Cuba.
What discrepancies exist between official government data and independent reports on femicides in Cuba?
Official government data reported 117 femicides between January and October of last year, a higher figure than the number recorded by independent feminist groups.