Cuba 'Forced Labor' Claims Emerge as Jamaica Cancels Doctor Deal

Jamaica has canceled its agreement to hire Cuban medical personnel. The Jamaican Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on March 5, 2026, that the deal was terminated due to labor rights violations.

These violations reportedly include the confiscation of passports and issues with how doctors were paid. This situation sheds light on practices that have been ongoing for decades.

📄 What Happened

The bilateral agreement between Jamaica and Cuba for medical staff has been officially ended. This decision follows serious allegations of mistreatment and control over Cuban doctors working in Jamaica.

The move highlights a pattern of questionable labor practices that have been associated with Cuban medical missions abroad.

📄 Where and When

The issue came to a head in Jamaica in early March 2026, with the official announcement of the agreement's termination.

The problems are said to have been present since the doctors first arrived in Jamaica, with practices continuing for years.

📄 Why It Matters

This cancellation directly impacts the healthcare services in Jamaica that relied on these Cuban professionals. It also brings to light the human rights and labor conditions faced by Cuban medical workers sent overseas.

It raises questions about international cooperation agreements and the protection of workers' rights in such arrangements.

📄 What Parties Say

Jamaica's government stated that while salaries were comparable to local professionals, the indirect payment system and lack of clear clauses on worker shares were legally questionable.

Cuban doctors reportedly earned between $1,400 and $2,100 USD monthly, but after deductions and currency conversions managed by Cuba, their take-home pay was as low as $1,050 USD.

Dr. Cheryl Morgan, who worked with Cuban brigades, told Jamaica Observer that many doctors were sent against their will and had their passports held by group leaders, creating fear and psychological pressure.

The U.S. State Department has previously labeled Cuba's medical programs as forced labor and human trafficking, warning of visa consequences for officials involved.

📄 What Comes Next

Jamaica intends to continue paying the salaries of the Cuban staff while managing the transition and considering direct hiring of Cuban professionals.

The cancellation in Jamaica is part of a broader trend, with over 11 countries modifying or ending similar medical agreements with Cuba since 2025 due to comparable issues.

Other nations like Honduras have initiated audits, while Dominica has moved to direct contracts, bypassing Cuban intermediaries.