The Archbishop of San Cristobal de la Habana, Cuba, has worked towards rebuilding churches and parish houses and building youth centers in Cuba.

In 1966 the Cuban government sent Alamino to a Military Units for the Aid of Production concentration camp, but after a year in imprisonment he was released and allowed to continue his ministry in his hometown of Jaguey Grande.

The 69 year old Alamino taught moral theology at the interdiocesan Seminary of La Habana and has always emphasised youth.

Alamino has long been outspoken about Cuba's human rights abuse.

Photograph:VINCENZO PINTO/AFP/Getty Images

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