Is the Cuban medical brigade in RASD currently active?

Yes, the Cuban medical mission in RASD is currently active since 1977 under the "Cuban Medical Brigade" framework.

How many Cuban doctors have worked in RASD?

The Cuban medical mission in RASD has accumulated 500 documented historical professionals, with 14 currently active.

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Activesince 1977

RASD

Active staff

500

Historical total

Documented years

Executive summary

Since December 1977, Cuba has sustained an active medical mission in the RASD's Tindouf refugee camps, spanning 49 years and reaching over 500 accumulated collaborators, with fluctuating brigade sizes—from 6 during the pandemic to 17 in 2023—reflecting inconsistencies between official UCCM figures and independently verified deployments. Documented labour rights violations include restrictions under MINCEX Resolution 368/2020, Cuba's Penal Code (art.176), Migration Law provisions, and Decree 306/2012, evidencing contractual coercion and forced repatriations upon mission completion. Political instrumentalization is also evident, exemplified by the July 2026 joint political event with Saharaui authorities. Behind the white coats lies a system of controlled labour disguised as solidarity. Cuba's medical diplomacy continues extracting human capital under the shadow of unfreedom.

Mission data

First documented year1977

Mission head

Dr. Omar Ochoa Santisteban (NOVIEMBRE 2021)

Dr. Héctor Aurelio Méndez López (2018-NOVIEMBRE 2021)

Dr. Maiquel Ramón Guerra Matos (2015-2018)

Research profile

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