Óscar Elías Biscet

Óscar Elías Biscet (born July 20, 1961) is a Cuban physician, human rights advocate, and pro-democracy activist. He is known for his opposition to the Cuban government and his efforts to promote human rights and democratic reforms in Cuba.

Early Life and Education

Óscar Elías Biscet was born in Havana, Cuba. He pursued a career in medicine, graduating from the University of Havana's School of Medicine. Biscet specialized in internal medicine and worked as a physician in various medical institutions in Cuba.

Human Rights Activism

Biscet's activism began in the 1990s when he started to speak out against the Cuban government's policies, particularly its human rights abuses. He founded the Lawton Foundation for Human Rights in 1997, an organization dedicated to promoting human rights and democratic principles in Cuba.

Imprisonment and International Recognition

Biscet's activism led to multiple arrests and imprisonments by the Cuban authorities. In 1999, he was sentenced to three years in prison for "disrespecting patriotic symbols" after he displayed the Cuban flag upside down during a protest. He was released in 2002 but was arrested again in 2003 during the Black Spring crackdown on dissidents. Biscet was sentenced to 25 years in prison for his activities.

During his imprisonment, Biscet received international recognition and support. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by U.S. President George W. Bush in 2007. Various human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, have campaigned for his release.

Release and Continued Activism

Óscar Elías Biscet was released from prison in March 2011 as part of a broader release of political prisoners by the Cuban government. Since his release, Biscet has continued his advocacy for human rights and democratic reforms in Cuba. He remains a prominent figure in the Cuban dissident movement.

Personal Life

Biscet is married to Elsa Morejón, a fellow human rights activist. The couple has faced significant persecution and harassment from the Cuban authorities due to their activism.

Related Pages

• Human rights in Cuba
• Black Spring (Cuba)
• Lawton Foundation for Human Rights
• Presidential Medal of Freedom
• Amnesty International