Recently, journalist Abdiel Bermúdez used a segment on the National Television News (NTV) to criticize the publication of distressing images related to the accident that claimed the life of singer Paulo FG. Bermúdez emphasized the necessity of distinguishing between public and private matters.
"For some morbid reason, personal dramas and private misfortunes are being exposed with alarming ease," he stated, labeling it a "vulgar, cruel, and insensitive behavior towards others' suffering." While the internet and cell phones are often blamed for this growing trend, Bermúdez argued that the choice to photograph, film, and share such content is a voluntary decision that contributes to what he termed a "sensationalist wave."
He cited instances of these morbid "news trophies," such as the photos shared online in 2017 following a young man's death by a shark in Guardalavaca and the videos from 2018 that showed painful footage of the Havana air disaster. A more recent example he mentioned was the video of a child who died after being sucked into a storm drain in Havana, which was unintentionally recorded but went viral after being posted online.
"In some countries, this invasion of privacy is met with the full force of the law. In Cuba," suggested the journalist, "the permissiveness has crossed a line, despite a penal code that punishes such actions, with harsher penalties when social media is involved." He concluded, "I believe this deserves a deterring punishment."
The Dual Nature of Sharing: Between Exposure and Sensationalism
Opinions in the comment section of the broadcast were divided. Some viewed the sharing of these images as a tool for social criticism, revealing realities that official media outlets do not cover. "Thanks to those videos and photos, we learn the truth, unlike the distorted news from official media, because according to TV, nothing ever happens in Cuba," a social media user remarked.
This perspective highlights how citizen-shared images bring attention to issues like poor hospital conditions, animal abuse, violence, and the nation's overall precariousness. Others pointed out that the issue is not with informing the public but with how it is done. "It's one thing to report a murder, another to show the bloody, mutilated body. One does not necessitate the other," one commentator noted, criticizing the excessive graphic nature of some posts.
Respecting Others' Grief: A Necessary Boundary
Those on the other side of the argument believe that sharing such images shows a lack of respect for those in mourning. "We need empathy. Imagine seeing images of a loved one devastated in an accident or suffering," a user urged. This viewpoint insists that the privacy of victims and their families should take precedence over the public's right to know.
Many agreed that displaying explicit images not only further victimizes the deceased but also extends the anguish of their families. "Indifference and a lack of empathy are widespread. Humanity is becoming desensitized. Strict penalties should be enforced in these cases," other comments echoed.
Regulation or Censorship?: The Legal Dilemma
In response, some advocate for regulations that would prevent the dissemination of sensitive images without family consent. "There needs to be a law to stop such crude and disrespectful acts. Enough is enough," an internet user insisted. However, others fear that such regulations could be misused to suppress information unfavorable to the government.
"With the current lack of information in our press, turning this into a crime to punish those who publish inconvenient truths could spell the end of truth in Cuba," warned another user, highlighting concerns that a potential law might be aimed more at controlling the official narrative than protecting victims' sensitivities.
The debate over sharing images of tragedies on social media in Cuba presents no simple solution. While some defend the freedom to inform as an inalienable right and a form of protest, others champion the protection of dignity and respect for grief. A third group sees the answer as striking a balance: inform, but without crossing ethical boundaries.
Frequently Asked Questions on Sharing Sensitive Images in Cuba
Why is the sharing of sensitive images a controversial issue in Cuba?
The sharing of sensitive images is controversial because it involves a conflict between the public's right to know and the need to respect individuals' privacy and dignity, particularly in the context of a restrictive media environment in Cuba.
What arguments are presented against sharing these images?
Opponents argue that sharing such images shows a lack of empathy and respect for the victims and their families, potentially prolonging their suffering and further victimizing them.