Cuba Reports 25 Femicides in 2026 Amidst Crisis

Qué pasó

Two more women have been confirmed as victims of femicide in Cuba. The independent Gender Observatory of Alas Tensas (OGAT) reported these cases, bringing the total number of women murdered due to gender violence in 2026 to 25.

These incidents underscore the ongoing crisis of gender-based violence on the island.

Dónde y cuándo

The first victim was Yarenia García Mariné, 36, from Palancón, Las Tunas. She had been missing since May 15th and her body was found on May 18th. The alleged aggressor was known to her and has been arrested.

The second case involved Yadira González Gámez, 41, murdered on May 17th in Cañada de Melones, Gibara, Holguín. The suspected perpetrator, also known to González Gámez, is in police custody.

Por qué es importante

The rising number of femicides highlights a severe lack of effective protection and protocols for victims of gender violence and for missing persons, particularly women and girls.

This situation is exacerbated by the current social and economic crisis gripping Cuba, potentially leaving vulnerable individuals with fewer resources and support systems.

Qué dicen las partes

The OGAT has expressed condolences to the families of the victims and acknowledged the community efforts in searching for the missing women.

The observatory also denounced acts of repression against family members and citizens who independently drive these search efforts, emphasizing the urgent need for effective state protocols.

Qué viene ahora

There is an urgent call for the creation and implementation of effective protocols for the search of missing persons, especially women and girls.

Attention must be paid to how authorities respond to these calls for protection and the potential for increased independent activism demanding accountability and better safety measures.