Cuba Retains Millions in Italian Doctors' Salaries, Report Claims

What Happened

The Cuban government has allegedly withheld more than three-quarters of the salaries paid by Italy to hundreds of Cuban doctors working in the region of Calabria. This accusation comes from an investigation by the Cuban Observatory of Human Rights (OCDH), which questions the economic and labor conditions imposed on these professionals.

The situation highlights a significant discrepancy between the funds allocated by Italy and the amount received by the doctors.

Where and When

The investigation, presented by journalist Annarella Grimal, focused on Cuban medical missions in Calabria, Italy. Data revealed that as of March 2025, out of €25.7 million allocated by Italian authorities for base salaries for 333 Cuban doctors, only €6.2 million had been directly received by the professionals.

This occurred while Italy's payments were reportedly made directly into the doctors' personal accounts.

Why It Matters

This alleged retention of funds significantly impacts the earnings of Cuban medical professionals working abroad. It raises serious concerns about labor rights and the transparency of the Cuban government's management of its medical missions.

The situation could affect the willingness of Cuban doctors to participate in international missions and potentially lead to further scrutiny of such agreements.

What the Parties Say

According to the OCDH report, the state-owned Comercializadora de Servicios Médicos Cubanos (CSMC) controls the contracts and requires doctors to transfer a substantial portion of their income to the Cuban state. Italy pays approximately €4,700 per doctor monthly, but Cuban professionals reportedly only retain up to €1,200, with the rest transferred to CSMC.

The report also details deductions on overtime, with claims that CSMC applies a 43% discount presented as an Italian tax, followed by another 50% transfer demand. This could leave doctors with as little as 28.5% of their additional earnings. Following U.S. sanctions on CSMC in July 2026, citing alleged forced labor practices, transfer mechanisms have been disrupted, leading to Cuban authorities reportedly seeking alternative methods, including having professionals carry cash.

What Comes Next

Amidst these allegations, around 63 Cuban doctors in Calabria have expressed a desire to work directly for Italian health authorities, bypassing the state-run company. However, some professionals report delays or difficulties in obtaining the necessary certifications for independent practice.

The investigation's findings are likely to lead to increased pressure for transparency and reform in the management of Cuban medical personnel abroad.