Gerardo Hernández criticised for using children in political...

What Happened

Gerardo Hernández Nordelo, a leader of the Committees for the Defense of the Revolution (CDRs), published a video on Facebook featuring children participating in a recreational activity. In the post, he questioned those advocating for external intervention in Cuba, asking if they could guarantee that children like those pictured would not become 'collateral damage'. The post was accompanied by hashtags such as #CDRCuba, #CubaNoSeRinde, and #LaPatriaSeDefiende.

However, instead of widespread support, the post generated hundreds of critical comments. Many users accused Hernández of using minors as a propaganda tool, arguing that these children are already experiencing the harsh realities of Cuba's ongoing economic and social crisis.

Where and When

The incident occurred on Tuesday, May 19, 2026. The post was shared on Facebook by Gerardo Hernández, a prominent figure within the Cuban government and the CDRs. The video depicted children engaged in a seemingly ordinary recreational activity, waving at the camera, which contrasted sharply with the serious implications of the accompanying message.

The context of the post was a broader discussion about potential foreign intervention in Cuba, a topic sensitive to both the Cuban government and the diaspora. The use of children in such a debate immediately drew attention and scrutiny.

Why It Matters

This incident highlights the contentious political climate surrounding Cuba and the methods used in public discourse. Critics argue that using children in political messaging, especially in the context of potential conflict or intervention, is ethically questionable and manipulative.

It brings to the forefront the ongoing debate about the welfare of Cuban children amidst economic hardship. Critics contend that the government's focus on political rhetoric, while potentially addressing external threats, distracts from or ignores the daily struggles faced by Cuban families and their children, such as shortages of food, medicine, and power outages.

What the Parties Say

Gerardo Hernández's post implied that external intervention would endanger Cuban children. The message was framed as a defense of the homeland and a rejection of foreign aggression, utilizing hashtags associated with national defense.

Conversely, a significant portion of the online public, particularly Cubans both on and off the island, strongly criticized the post. They accused Hernández of using children as 'political shields' and pointed out that these children are already suffering as 'collateral damage' due to the island's persistent crises. Common criticisms cited the daily realities of long power outages, scarcity of essential goods like milk and food, difficulties in healthcare access, and a lack of resources in educational institutions.

Some comments also touched upon historical tragedies involving children, such as the 1994 sinking of the tugboat '13 de Marzo', where many children died. Questions were also raised about military spending versus the needs of the population.

What Comes Next

The controversy surrounding Gerardo Hernández's post underscores the deep polarization in Cuba and the sensitive nature of discussions involving children in political contexts. It reflects a growing public dissatisfaction with the government's handling of domestic issues.

It is likely that similar debates will continue online, with government figures using national security arguments and critics highlighting socio-economic hardships. The incident also raises questions about the legal and ethical considerations of using images of minors in political campaigns or propaganda without explicit consent, a point also raised by some observers.