“José Gabriel Barrenechea’s unjust detention underscores the risks faced by journalists who challenge authority. While his voice is now silenced, his courage continues to resonate for those who defy repression. We must act now to demand his release and defend the right to free press, without fear of reprisal.” Burhan Sonmez, President of PEN International
3 May 2025: José Gabriel Barrenechea, a Cuban independent journalist and author, has been detained since November 2024 after participating in protests over Cuba’s energy crisis. He was arrested for allegedly leading a demonstration and charged with ‘public disorder’, carrying a potential sentence of three to eight years. Barrenechea’s detention has been marked by severe human rights violations, including poor prison conditions, denial of legal independent defence, and isolation from his family. His health has deteriorated due to a hunger strike, and his elderly mother, suffering from cancer, has been denied the right to see him. PEN International calls for Barrenechea’s immediate release and an end to the repression of dissent in Cuba.
Take action with us on World Press Freedom Day 2025.
How can you help?
PEN International urgently calls for the immediate release of José Gabriel Barrenechea and demands that the Cuban government end its ongoing repression of artists, journalists, and writers critical of the authorities. Barrenechea’s detention is a clear violation of his right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, as outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which Cuba is a signatory. We urge the Cuban authorities to honour their international commitments and ensure a safe, free environment for all individuals exercising their right to freedom of expression.
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Spread the word about José Gabriel Barrenechea’s case on social media. Use the hashtags #JoseGabrielBarrenechea, #WPFD, #WPFD25 and #WorldPressFreedomDay, tagging @peninternational (Instagram), facebook.com/peninternational (Facebook), @peninternational.bsky.social (Bluesky) and @penamericas.bsky.social (Bluesky).
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