The vast majority of the journalists were arrested in March 2003 during a massive crackdown on the country’s independent press and grassroots dissent, known as the “Black Spring.” They were given prison sentences ranging from 14 to 27 years after sham trials.

The imprisoned journalists are subject to ill treatment and appalling living conditions and most of them have developed serious health problems for which they are regularly refused medical care.

WAN urges the Cuban leadership to release all journalists and end an era of repression of free speech. It moreover invites President Raúl Castro to decisively support media legislation reforms and promote freedom of expression and freedom of the press in the country.

The Board of WAN believes that President Castro has an historic opportunity to create an environment in which the independent press and media pluralism can develop and encourages him to rapidly take measures in this direction.

View the list of imprisoned journalists here.