UN forcefully hits at U.S. blockade of Cuba

July 3, 2023 10:09 AM CDT BY W. T. WHITNEY JR.



The U.S prison on Guantanamo Bay, Cuban land held illegally by the U.S. The horrific stain on the reputation of the U.S. and its ugly blockade of Cuba continues as the prison remains open. Even this photo had to be approved by the U.S. government before it could be run. No photos of the horrible things happening in the prison ever get out under heavy U.S. censorship. | Alex Brandon/AP



Nothing on the horizon now threatens the end of the U.S. economic blockade of Cuba. Critical voices inside the United States and beyond fall flat; nothing is in the works, it seems. Recently, however, the United Nations put forth a denunciation that carries unusual force, mainly because of the UN’s legal authority and its practical experience in Cuba.

Criticism of U.S. policies on Cuba from within the United States is usually brushed aside due in large measure to the low priority Washington officials assign to Cuban affairs. Coalitions of nations that condemn the blockade may lack staying power and surely have no means for enforcement. The anti-blockade opinions of nations or individuals—alone or together—are useful mainly for consciousness-raising.

The United Nations is different on account of its institutional capacity. It’s on display when the UN General Assembly annually votes on a Cuban resolution calling for an end to the blockade. Every year word of its overwhelming and inevitable approval goes worldwide, because of the UN connection. The United Nations is unique on account of its Charter, which took effect on October 24,1945. This founding instrument outlines purposes as to peace, no war, and human rights. It is legally binding on participating nations, like a treaty.

Additionally, the history and expectations associated with the United Nations endow that organization with institutional power. That’s something that neither NGOs operating in Cuba or the time-limited projects of various governments on the scene there can claim.

Another element emerges. The United Nations works within Cuba and participates in Cuban affairs. On that account, UN complaints about U.S. all-but-war against Cuba take on special authority.

More:
https://www.peoplesworld.org/article/un-forcefully-hits-at-u-s-blockade-of-cuba/