WCC Welcomes U.S. Decision to Rescind Cuba’s Terrorism Designation

The WCC welcomes the U.S. decision to remove Cuba’s state sponsor of terrorism designation, viewing it as a chance to improve life for Cubans. The original designation imposed severe economic sanctions since 1982, which the WCC has long opposed. Previous efforts to normalize relations peaked in 2014 under Obama, but were reversed by Trump in 2021.

The World Council of Churches (WCC) has expressed approval regarding the United States’ recent decision to rescind Cuba’s designation as a state sponsor of terrorism. General Secretary Pillay noted that this change could potentially alleviate the hardships currently experienced by the Cuban population, which have been intensified by U.S. embargoes and the prior designation. He urged the international community to utilize this opportunity to improve the lives and future prospects for the Cuban people.

Cuba originally received its designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism (SST) in 1982 during President Reagan’s administration, mainly due to alleged support for communist insurgencies and terrorist organizations across Latin America and Africa. This designation imposed significant economic sanctions on Cuba that limited foreign aid, restricted defense exports, and curtailed various financial transactions.

The WCC has long campaigned for an end to the economic, commercial, and financial embargo against Cuba, serving alongside churches as advocates for peace, hope, cooperation, and mutual respect. At the WCC’s 11th Assembly, held in 2022, a call was made for Cuba’s removal from the SST list.

Efforts to normalize relations between the U.S. and Cuba began in December 2014 under President Obama, marking a shift towards diplomatic engagement. Though Cuba’s SST designation was rescinded in 2015, President Trump reinstated it in January 2021 just before his term concluded.

The recent rescission of Cuba’s designation as a state sponsor of terrorism by the United States marks a significant shift in relations, which the World Council of Churches commends. This action aims to ease the economic hardships on the Cuban populace and encourages international support for their betterment. Historically, this designation has imposed numerous sanctions, which the WCC has opposed, and their continued advocacy reflects a commitment to fostering peace and cooperation.

Original Source: www.oikoumene.org