The ongoing debate over ethics and technology use on social media in Cuba has taken a more severe turn as the government intensifies its punitive actions under what are being called "gag laws." Recent announcements from the Cuban regime indicate that social media posts deemed contrary to state guidelines could lead to confiscations and imprisonment, increasing the regime's grip on digital expression.
The controversial topic was further discussed on the program "Hacemos Cuba," hosted by government spokesperson Humberto López. The show delved into the application of ethics in technology and examined the regulations surrounding social media. The government claims these measures are necessary to maintain a semblance of order that safeguards the nation's security and stability.
David Wong Sio, a director at the Cuban Ministry of Communications, stated that the regime holds the power to imprison, fine, and even seize mobile phones and other devices used in data dissemination, with the possibility of selling them afterward. This initiative is part of a broader governmental strategy to control the digital information flow, sparking concerns both domestically and internationally about potential restrictions on freedom of expression and access to information.
The issue has gained traction in state-controlled media. Recently, journalist Abdiel Bermúdez criticized, during a segment on the National Television News (NTV), the posting of graphic images related to the accident that claimed the life of singer Pablo Fernández Gallo (PabloFG). Bermúdez argued for a boundary between public and private content, noting the disturbing ease with which personal tragedies are exposed. He condemned the practice as "gross, cruel, and insensitive" towards the suffering of others.
Despite the blame often being placed on the internet and cell phones, Bermúdez emphasized that the decision to capture, film, and share such content is a voluntary action, making the individual a part of what he described as a “sensationalist wave.” He cited examples like the photos shared in 2017 following a shark attack death in Guardalavaca and videos from the 2018 Havana plane crash.
In a related incident, a technical specialist from the Calixto García Hospital in Havana was dismissed from the Ministry of Public Health (MINSAP) for allegedly filming and sharing a video of singer Paulo FG's remains. The dismissal came after an investigation pinpointed her as the person responsible for the recording shortly after the artist's death in a tragic accident on March 1st along Havana's Malecón.
Understanding Cuba's "Gag Laws" and Their Impact
What are Cuba's "gag laws"?
Cuba's "gag laws" refer to the recent measures implemented by the Cuban government to penalize social media posts that oppose state guidelines. These measures include possible confiscation of devices and imprisonment.
How do these laws affect freedom of expression in Cuba?
The laws significantly restrict freedom of expression by threatening severe penalties for online dissent, thereby discouraging open discourse and limiting access to diverse information.
Who is Humberto López?
Humberto López is a government spokesperson and host of the program "Hacemos Cuba," where he discusses topics related to state policies, including the recent social media regulations.
Why was a hospital worker in Havana dismissed?
The worker was dismissed for allegedly filming and sharing a video of the remains of singer Paulo FG after his fatal accident, which was deemed inappropriate and a breach of privacy.