Why are Cubans protesting, and what do we know about it?
What Happened?
Thousands of people in the small island nation of Cuba are protesting against the country’s communist government. This is believed to the biggest demonstrations seen in more than three decades. During the protests in major cities, including Havana and Santiago, people were chanting “freedom” and they called for President Miguel Díaz-Canel to step down.
Why Is It Happening?
The protests have been caused by the worsening economic crisis in the country. Cuba depends highly on tourism, and its main source of income has been significantly affected by the coronavirus pandemic. Many people are being forced to wait hours to buy basic food items. Meanwhile, the others are finding it hard to get work as restaurants and businesses have been impacted by the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic.
On top of the pandemic, the economic sanctions imposed by the administration of former U.S. president Donald Trump has also affected Cuba. The country’s economy contracted by 11% in 2020, which is its worst performance in around three decades. Mostly, Cubans are protesting against food shortages, increasing cases of COVID-19 and severe electricity blackouts in the country. They are saying that these problems arose because of the government’s inability to handle the situation.
What Are The Governments Saying?
The President of Cuba has blamed the protest on the U.S and said that “sincere protestors” have been “manipulated” by U.S-orchestrated social media campaigns and “mercenaries” on the ground, writes The Indian Express. Diaz-Canel has warned of action and called upon its supporters to “confront provocations”. Andres Manuel Lopex Obrador, the Mexican President, backed Cuba and said that the U.S economic embargo should be ended.
However, US President Joe Biden said that the US “stands firmly” with the people of Cuba and “their clarion call for freedom”, writes CBS News. Biden also said, “…And we call on the government of Cuba to refrain from violence in their attempt to silence the voices of the people of Cuba.”
Zooming Out
Cuba has a lot of problems — the pandemic and the worsening economic condition. Now, the people are questioning the government and asking for the end of the communist dictatorship. They want the pandemic to be handled in a better way, and they want access to basic foods. It also looks like the historic protests might not end anytime soon until the public get what they ask for.
Congressman Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart was quoted by Newsweek saying, “Now more than ever, the United States and the international community must support the Cuban people in their struggle for freedom.” He added, “We know what freedom means for the Cuban people, and now, while the regime uses savage violence against the people peacefully demonstrating in the streets, the world has the obligation to stand with the brave Cuban people.” So, Cubans need a better government, and we have to wait and see whether more nations come in and support the country so that it can have a better future.
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