Deep concern over renewed arrest of Cuban activist José Daniel Ferrer 

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Mounir Satouri calls on the Cuban authorities to respect fundamental rights and ensure that all citizens are free to express themselves without fear of persecution.

Following confirmation that Cuban human rights activist José Daniel Ferrer has had his parole revoked, Human Rights Subcommittee Chair Mounir Satouri (Greens, FR) issued the following statement:

“The European Parliament’s Subcommittee on Human Rights expresses its deep concern over the renewed arrest of José Daniel Ferrer by Cuban authorities, along with fellow activist Félix Navarro. This comes only a couple weeks after the Subcommittee's public hearing on the human rights situation in Cuba on 8 April. Mr Ferrer, who had been released on parole in January 2025, was able to share his testimony during the hearing. Unable to connect live because of a power cut, he sent a pre-recorded video detailing deeply troubling accounts of torture and systematic abuse in Cuban prisons.

We urgently call for Ferrer’s immediate and unconditional release, along with Félix Navarro, as well as for official confirmation of their whereabouts and guarantees for their physical safety and protection. We reaffirm our call on the Cuban authorities to respect fundamental rights and ensure that all citizens are free to express themselves without fear of persecution, even those with dissenting opinions. We also urge the Cuban government to respond to the legitimate demands of Cuban people through inclusive and sincere dialogue.

The European Union will continue to follow developments in Cuba closely and will make full use of all available mechanisms to address its concerns, in accordance with the principles outlined in the EU-Cuba Political Dialogue and Cooperation Agreement. The EU stands in solidarity with all those working peacefully for democratic change and remains committed to supporting efforts toward a more open and inclusive society.”

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