Sexual violence in Las Tunas increased last year compared to 2023, according to a report by the Cuban Observatory on Gender Equality, affiliated with the National Office of Statistics and Information (ONEI). The same source added that femicides decreased during this same period.

Las Tunas, Cuba.- In 2024, 22 victims of sexual assault, harassment, or abuse were reported, for a rate of 10.85 incidents per 100,000 women, equivalent to double the national average (5.42 per 100,000). In 2023, 20 cases were reported; thus, the Eastern Cuban Balcony is classified as a province with a high incidence of this crime, with an upward trend.

During the past calendar year, there were two gender-based murders, half of which occurred in 2023. The rate of these felonies in 2024 was 0.99 per 100,000 women, below the national average.

As part of its zero-tolerance policy against gender-based violence, Cuba implemented this Observatory, which highlights an issue of concern to citizens. Its data revealed worrying trends and regional contrasts regarding violence against women.

At a press conference, it was reported that 76 femicides were recorded in the Archipelago during 2024, representing a 31 percent increase compared to 2023. The rates of these incidents per 100,000 women were high in provinces such as Cienfuegos (4.70), Matanzas (2.96), and Granma (2.21). Such despicable crimes occurred more in rural areas; while 71 percent of the victims were mothers of minors (39 cases), leaving 70 girls and boys orphaned. 72 percent of the aggressors were partners or ex-partners.

In total, 230 cases of sexual violence were prosecuted in Cuba last year, the Observatory stated, but provinces such as Las Tunas and the special municipality of Isla de la Juventud had alarming rates per 100,000 women: 10.85 and 32.10, respectively. The same source added that young women between 15 and 17 years of age were the most at risk, especially in rural zones.