Cuban migrants have become the largest group of asylum seekers in Brazil, driven by a worsening economic crisis and facilitated by coyotes selling migration packages.
In 2025, Cubans surpassed Venezuelans to become the largest group of asylum seekers in Brazil, with nearly 42,000 requests documented. This significant uptick in migration is attributed to a dire economic and humanitarian crisis in Cuba, further exacerbated by a U.S. imposed ban on the importation of Venezuelan oil. The resulting conditions in Cuba include daily power outages of up to 20 hours, closures of hotels, canceled flights, and a halt in the collection of trash and essential services, leading to increased desperation among its citizens.
The Folha's report delves into the role of coyotes and traffickers who exploit this situation, advertising migration packages to Brazil through WhatsApp groups. The prices for these packages range from $1,000 to $4,000, reflecting both the high demand and the vulnerability of those seeking a better life. The investigation highlights the complex dynamics of human smuggling amidst a backdrop of escalating migration rates and distressing conditions faced by Cubans.
Café da Manhã features a discussion with reporter Mayara Paixão, who authored the investigation. This episode provides insights into the ongoing migration crisis and sheds light on the challenges faced by those fleeing Cuba in search of safety and opportunities in Brazil. The rise in migration patterns not only signals a critical humanitarian issue but also raises questions about the responses from Brazilian authorities and the implications for regional stability.
