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“As an organization dedicated to promoting justice, peace, and solidarity among nations, we firmly believe that the blockade against Cuba runs counter to the principles of international law, justice, and human rights that the United Nations stands for,” wrote Pillay. “For over six decades, the people of Cuba have endured economic hardships, limitations on access to essential goods, and restrictions on their right to self-determination due to this protracted embargo.”
Pillay further noted that these measures have had a significant impact on the lives of ordinary Cubans. The World Council of Churches believes that it is imperative for the international community to express its collective disapproval of such punitive measures that affect the most vulnerable members of society, and which are counter to human rights and dignity,” he wrote. “Furthermore, we would like to emphasize our hope that the United Nations General Assembly takes this opportunity to consider the supporting the removal of Cuba from the list of State Sponsors of Terrorism.”
The World Council of Churches would like to see a more inclusive and constructive relationship between the United States and Cuba, added Pillay. “Removing Cuba from the list of
State Sponsors of Terrorism would be a meaningful step towards normalizing relations and
fostering cooperation on issues of global importance, including climate change, public health,
and economic development,” he wrote. “We believe these actions will promote peace, justice, and solidarity among nations, which are fundamental principles that both the World Council of Churches and the United Nations hold dear.”
The United Nations General Assembly will debate the issue on 1 November, and vote on 2 November.
