Cuban activist Amelia Calzadilla has articulated her genuine aspiration: to return to Cuba and eventually address the Cuban parliament, dismissing any political ambitions in Europe and reaffirming her dedication to her homeland.
In an interview with CiberCuba, the young activist shared, "I envision myself going back to Cuba, speaking in the Cuban parliament someday. Not in the Basque parliament, not in the European parliament. I want to discuss Cuban matters with Cubans, who understand me perfectly when I speak."
As the program coordinator for the organization Citizenship and Freedom, Calzadilla acknowledged that politics was an unexpected path for her, as she had envisioned a very different life.
"I never imagined pursuing a political career. I pictured myself in a study, quietly writing, doing my translations, picking up my kids from school at noon, with my family, everything very stable, very calm," she admitted.
Calzadilla, a mother of three who sought refuge in Spain in 2025 due to pressures from the State Security, emphasized that political activism unveiled a calling she had always possessed but never realized.
"Politics has pleasantly surprised me. I believe I have a calling to help others, and it has always been there," she asserted.
Calzadilla's Vision and Critique of Cuban Leadership
When asked about the possibility of aspiring to the Cuban presidency, she was candid: "I want that to happen, but I don't know if it's in the presidential seat. I think we're a bit hasty in that regard."
Calzadilla also launched a direct critique of Cuban regime officials and explained why those who oppose the regime bear an unavoidable responsibility, in her view.
"What I criticize about the regime's politicians is precisely that they are corrupt and inept. Therefore, those of us who are neither corrupt nor inept, in some way, I feel we have the responsibility to say: I'm here, count on me," she remarked.
The activist rejected the notion that politics is a platform for personal fame.
"You don't enter politics to be a celebrity. You go to serve others. And that's a concept I have always held," she stated, comparing political vocation to a medical one: "It's not like being a doctor, but it's a vocation to help, and I will continue doing it."
The Passion for Her Homeland
Calzadilla also spoke about her deep affection for Cuba and how it intensified after leaving the island.
"I won't say I love Cuba more than my children because I don't like to deceive; I prefer the truth. But I have a love for my country that I've always had, which grew even stronger when I left. My frustration grew, my anger grew, and my desire to act grew even more," she expressed emotionally.
These statements come during a week of significant international activity for Calzadilla, who, alongside Carolina Barrero, founder of Citizenship and Freedom, met in Brussels with the Vice President of the European Parliament, Esteban González Pons, and officials from the European External Action Service to push for a review of the Political Dialogue and Cooperation Agreement between the European Union and Cuba.
Calzadilla is also participating in the Amnesty Action Forum 2026, which brings together over fifty organizations and plans to present a draft Law of Amnesty and Decriminalization of Dissent by mid-May 2026.
Amelia Calzadilla's Aspirations and Political Views
What are Amelia Calzadilla's political ambitions?
Amelia Calzadilla's true political ambition is to return to Cuba and speak in the Cuban parliament. She is not interested in pursuing political roles in Europe.
How did Amelia Calzadilla's political career begin?
Calzadilla's involvement in politics was unexpected, as she initially envisioned a life of stability focused on her family and work as a translator. Political activism revealed her calling to help others.
What criticisms does Amelia Calzadilla have of Cuban regime politicians?
Calzadilla criticizes Cuban regime politicians for being corrupt and inept. She believes those who oppose the regime have a responsibility to stand up and offer their support.