KINGSTON, Jamaica — Human rights organisation Stand Up For Jamaica is calling for greater transparency regarding the circumstances that led to the withdrawal of Cuban medical personnel from Jamaica and the implications it may have on the island.

The organisation noted that the discontinuation of the programme comes after 50 years of partnership, where Cuban doctors, nurses, and medical technicians played an important role in supporting Jamaica’s healthcare system.

It acknowledged the concerns raised by the Government of Jamaica regarding the programme’s compliance with Jamaican labour laws and international conventions, including matters relating to salary payment arrangements and the custody of travel documents, noting that the issues warrant careful attention and must be addressed in ways that protect workers’ rights and uphold Jamaica’s legal obligations.

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However, the organisation suggested that the issues could have been solved since the partnership was established five decades ago, describing as “bizarre” that “what was a regular practice for such a long time be[came] an obstacle to continue a partnership which has been successful for both sides.”

Acknowledging that the broader geopolitical environment, including tensions between the United States and Cuba influenced discussions surrounding similar medical cooperation programmes in several countries, Stand Up For Jamaica emphasised that Jamaica must remain focused on its own national priorities and healthcare needs.

It highlighted what it described as solutions implemented by other Caribbean countries to the issues raised by the United States, including freedom of movement and payment.

Stand Up For Jamaica encouraged the Government to consider the humanitarian crisis Cuba is experiencing, consider our national needs and clarify its decision.

In the meantime, the organisation has also called for the Jamaican public to be fully informed about the implications due to the end of the partnership.