Prisoners Defenders report alleges exploitation of Cuban doctors in Botswana

An investigation by Prisoners Defenders alleges that Cuban doctors deployed on medical missions in Botswana are victims of modern slavery and forced labor. According to a report based on a bilateral agreement, the Botswana government pays approximately $4,094 per specialist monthly, but the professionals receive only $1,000—roughly 24.4% of the total fee. The remaining $3,094 is transferred to the Cuban state.

The investigation estimates that the annual billing for a contingent of 90 professionals amounts to approximately $4.2 million. The report claims that Botswana is aware of this distribution because the 2024 bilateral agreement requires monthly invoices to separate the amount intended for the professional from the amount transferred to Cuba.

Furthermore, internal documents suggest that these medical workers face significant restrictions on their personal freedoms. Reported constraints include limitations on movement outside their assigned districts, prohibitions on receiving visitors in their homes, and restrictions on social life, vehicle use, and freedom of expression. Javier Larrondo, president of Prisoners Defenders, stated that Botswana acts as the “financer, host, and material support” for this system.