Activists from the Latin American Youth Network for Democracy (Juventud LAC) have demanded the resignation of Brazilian Alexandre Pupo Quintino, the Secretary General of the International Youth Organization for Ibero-America (OIJ), following his visit to Cuba as part of the Nuestra América flotilla.
In a public letter addressed to national representatives, ministers, and youth directors across Ibero-American countries, as well as to Ibero-American Secretary General Andrés Allamand and the board of the International Youth Organization for Ibero-America, the signatories urge the Brazilian official's resignation, arguing that his actions represent a significant breach of institutional integrity.
The activists contend that this trip marks a departure from the democratic principles and human rights that should guide the organization. "The youth of our region cannot be represented by authorities who downplay or overlook the absence of fundamental freedoms. International institutions must support those fighting for democracy, not those who constrain it," stated Julieta Altieri, President of Juventud LAC.
Concerns Over Resource Misuse
The document, endorsed by the Juventud LAC Steering Committee, calls for clarification on the potential use of OIJ's public resources for participating in this initiative, as well as any misuse of official time for purposes unrelated to the organization's mandate.
Millions of young individuals across Ibero-America are demanding democracy, freedom, and unwavering respect for their rights, aspirations that the signatories argue remain unfulfilled in Cuba after over six decades of authoritarian rule.
Moreover, Juventud LAC warns that the director's visit to the island undermines the credibility of the Ibero-American system, particularly ahead of the upcoming Ibero-American Summit in Madrid. The group urges regional governments to take a firm stance in defending human rights.
Call to Action for Regional Leaders
Finally, the organization calls on national youth authorities to demand Pupo Quintino's resignation and to "side with those who continue to be oppressed, persecuted, and silenced in our region."
The Latin American Youth Network for Democracy (Juventud LAC) is a regional platform connecting youth organizations and leaders dedicated to promoting democracy, defending human rights, ensuring electoral transparency, and encouraging active political participation in Latin America and the Caribbean.
In a video released after his arrival on the island, the director stated that Cuba is an active member of his organization and that "being here is also standing shoulder to shoulder with Cuban youth."
Humanitarian Convoy to Cuba
According to organizers, the convoy plans to deliver over 20 tons of humanitarian aid through various means—air, land, and sea—to Cuban territory.
In the coming days, additional groups and shipments are expected, including a delegation that arrived from Mexico this weekend with more supplies.
The visit of these activists has featured a series of meetings held in recent days with Cuban state officials and institutions, including exchanges with the leader Miguel Díaz-Canel.
Journalist Yoani Sánchez responded to these visits on social media with a direct message on Saturday: "We are not a theme park. Go do ideological tourism elsewhere. We are suffering here."
Key Questions About the Controversial Cuba Visit
What are the main reasons for demanding Pupo Quintino's resignation?
Activists argue that his visit to Cuba represents a departure from democratic values and human rights principles that the organization should uphold, as well as a lack of institutional coherence.
How might Pupo Quintino's visit affect the Ibero-American Summit?
The visit could undermine the credibility of the Ibero-American system and influence discussions on human rights and democracy at the upcoming summit in Madrid.
What is the purpose of the Nuestra América convoy?
The convoy aims to deliver over 20 tons of humanitarian aid to Cuba via air, land, and sea.