The African Regional Organisation of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC-Africa) has called on the United States to end its longstanding economic, commercial and financial embargo against Cuba, saying the restrictions continue to worsen the living conditions of ordinary citizens and workers.
The organisation also urged the international community to move beyond repeated diplomatic resolutions and take practical steps to ease the embargo and support Cuba’s economic and social development.
ITUC-Africa General Secretary, Akhator Joel Odigie, made the call in a statement issued in Lomé, Togo, on Monday, October 26, 2026, as the United Nations considers the longstanding dispute over the US embargo.
According to the organisation, the restrictions have constrained livelihoods, production and access to essential goods, with significant consequences for Cuban workers and their families.
It argued that the hardship faced by ordinary citizens should not be accepted as a consequence of geopolitical disagreements.
The organisation said its position reflected Africa’s tradition of international solidarity and Cuba’s historical contribution to the continent’s liberation struggles.
However, it stressed that its support for Cuba was also based on the principles of sovereignty, self-determination, social justice and equal treatment of nations under international law.
ITUC-Africa warned that the continued embargo raised broader concerns about the credibility of multilateral institutions and the consistent application of international law.
It said allowing powerful countries to impose their will without regard for the collective positions of other nations could weaken the foundations of the international order.
The organisation noted that Africa, given its historical experiences, had a particular interest in ensuring that international law protected weaker nations and placed limits on the exercise of power by stronger states.
It further said the embargo had implications for Cuban workers beyond diplomatic disagreements, affecting wages, livelihoods, public services, access to medicines and essential supplies, as well as opportunities for young people.
ITUC-Africa called on UN member states and relevant international institutions to pursue credible diplomatic engagement in line with the United Nations Charter and adopt measures capable of improving the living conditions of ordinary Cubans.
It also emphasised the need to protect workers’ rights, including decent work, freedom of association, social protection and meaningful participation in decisions concerning their country’s future.
The organisation maintained that international solidarity should be assessed by its contribution to human dignity rather than political alignment alone.
It warned that multilateralism risked losing credibility if repeated international commitments and resolutions failed to produce tangible results for the people affected.
“The people of Cuba need more than another expression of concern. They must see change,” the statement said.
