UN General Assembly Reiterates Call to Lift U.S. Embargo on Cuba: A 32-Year Trend

On October 30, 2024, the United Nations General Assembly conducted its annual vote concerning a resolution aimed at terminating the United States’ economic, commercial, and financial embargo against Cuba. The results demonstrated a decisive international consensus:

In Favor: 187 countries (vast majority)

Against: 2 countries (United States and Israel)

Abstained: 1 country (Moldova)

This marks the 32nd consecutive year that the UN General Assembly has condemned the U.S. embargo, reflecting the extensive opposition from the global community against this long-standing policy.

Key Points

1. Overwhelming Support: The vote showcased the solidarity of UN member states, with 187 out of 193 countries advocating for an end to the embargo, signifying widespread disapproval of U.S. policy worldwide.

2. Consistent Pattern: This vote continues a persistent trend established over three decades, with the UN consistently advocating for the cessation of the embargo since 1992, highlighting a sustained call for change.

3. Cuban Perspective: Cuba’s Foreign Minister, Bruno Eduardo Rodriguez Parrilla, referred to the embargo as “commercial warfare” and “a crime of genocide,” highlighting its detrimental effects on the Cuban population and economy.

4. U.S. Isolation: The voting results underscore the United States' isolation regarding this issue, as only Israel supported its position against the resolution.

Impact and Reactions

The embargo, which has endured for 62 years, has precipitated significant hardships for the Cuban economy and its citizens. Cuban officials report persistent shortages of essential goods such as food, medicine, and fuel, compounded by daily blackouts and soaring inflation attributed to the blockade.

There is a growing chorus of disapproval from countries and international organizations, perceiving the embargo as an antiquated policy that adversely affects everyday Cubans. The UN vote reinforces a global demand for a revision of U.S. policy towards Cuba, advocating for the principles of sovereign equality among states and the freedom of international trade and navigation.

It is critical to recognize, however, that resolutions passed by the UN General Assembly are not legally binding. The United States has upheld its embargo policy through various administrations over the years, and any potential shift would necessitate legislative action from both Congress and the executive branch.

Conclusion

The UN General Assembly’s overwhelmingly supportive vote reflects a powerful, unified voice against the U.S. embargo on Cuba. As this resolution marks another year in a long timeline of international opposition, it poses a significant challenge for U.S. policymakers and calls for a re-evaluation of a policy that has come under intense scrutiny for its humanitarian implications.