Art historian and activist Carolina Barrero Ferrer shared her experiences dealing with European and American politicians in denouncing the Cuban dictatorship and its ruling elite during a television program. "Everyone listens, but the question is, who acts? They all listen attentively and take notes. They never refuse a meeting, but then, what do they do with that information?" Barrero described to journalist Juan Manuel Cao on the "A Fondo" program on América TeVé.
Throughout the conversation, Barrero showcased an exceptional understanding of international relations, particularly the diplomacy between Cuba, the European Union, and the United States. She was particularly critical of Josep Borrell, the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, accusing him of attempting to “whitewash and build ties with the dictatorship” during his tenure.
Referring to Borrell's visit to Havana last year, Barrero stated that they do not want the repression experienced by political prisoners and their families to be concealed, a stance seemingly endorsed by the EU when its members meet with the Cuban dictatorship. "We don't want the European delegation's meetings with civil society in Havana to occur in secret without public acknowledgment. We don't want submission to the regime's demands but rather recognition of democratic forces," she stressed.
Call for Individual Sanctions
Barrero emphasized the need for the European Union to impose individual sanctions on the Communist Party's leadership. “The elite members and their families should be barred from traveling to Europe, opening bank accounts, or conducting business within Europe. This includes entities like GAESA and CIMEX,” she asserted.
As one of the most prominent activists in Cuba in recent years, Barrero received the Sakharov Fellowship from the European Parliament (EP) this past March. The fellowship is awarded annually since 2016 to up to fourteen human rights defenders from non-European Union countries, focusing on empowering them to become agents of democratic change in their own nations.
Upon receiving the fellowship, Barrero explained that it involves “a program of meetings, conferences, and training on topics related to human rights defense and the functioning of European mechanisms in support of democracy.” She added, "It is a recognition of Cuban activism and a tremendous responsibility that I will prioritize in the service of the cause of freedom."
Barrero is a member of the 27N platform and one of the most recognizable voices among young activists associated with the San Isidro Movement (MSI).