MEXICO

Cuba’s medical collaboration with Mexico began in 1985 when, following an earthquake, Cuba sent a medical brigade of 40 workers and 13 tons of various materials. Since then, the Cuban government has offered Mexico medical and technical services. In 2017, the two governments signed medical cooperation agreements including in the areas of research and exchange of medicines and treatments. From April to May 2020, 585 Cuban medical personnel arrived in Mexico City and 108 in Veracruz to assist the response to Covid-19, through agreements with local governments. However, the number could be higher, as a source in the capital’s Economic Development Secretariat (SEDECO) has said that authorities count around 800 Cuban doctors who are staying in Mexico City. The assistance of the medical workers is costing the Mexican government 6,255,792 USD, which includes salaries but also training, advising and joint research efforts. Of the average $10,700 USD the Mexican government pays for each of the 585 Cuban medical worker that provides services in the nation’s capital, Havana pays them only $660 USD for three months ($220 USD per month). Meanwhile, housing for the workers has been provided by Mexican hotel establishments that have made “donations” to support the fight against the pandemic. Since April, at least 15 Cuban medical workers have already defected from this mission.

Anonymous: None
Not anonymous: None
Public (media): 2 Link to media reports
Findings from cases: In addition to violations stemming from Resolution 168 and other
applicable Cuban laws, the testimonies of two female medical workers allege confiscation
of passports, mandatory housing assignment, prohibition of staying overnight somewhere
other than assigned housing without permission, imposition of curfew, prohibition on
having social relations with nationals without authorization, restrictions on movement
within the country, and monitoring by supervisors and colleagues.

Orlando, Chief of Mission in Mexico City (last name remains unknown)

Arriban 108 médicos cubanos para colaborar en Veracruz
10,700 dólares: esto es lo que paga la Ciudad México por cada médico contratado al Gobierno cubano
¿Qué dice el contrato entre La Habana y Lima para el envío de médicos cubanos a Perú?
585 médicos y enfermeros cubanos que atienden pacientes de Covid en CDMX recibirán más de 10 mill 693 dolares
590 médicos cubanos está en México para enfrentar al Covid-19
Cuba y México suscriben convenios de cooperación en área de salud
Una doctora de Mayarí escapa de la brigada médica cubana en México
Cuba y Ciudad de México firman convenios cooperación en área de salud
Jefe de brigada sanitaria en México desata cacería de brujas por artículos de CiberCuba