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The American newspaper The New York Times asserted this Friday that Cuba is experiencing its worst crisis since Fidel Castro came to power in 1959, even surpassing the so-called Special Period of the 1990s following the dissolution of the Soviet Union.
The article highlights that the country is facing a combination of economic, social, and energy challenges that have profoundly deteriorated the quality of life for Cubans.
Among the mentioned issues are three national blackouts since October, a migration crisis that has reduced the population by at least one million people since the pandemic, and a stagnant economy with negative projections for the coming years.
"In many ways, Cuba is experiencing its worst crisis since Fidel Castro took power 66 years ago, surpassing even that of the early 1990s when the dissolution of the Soviet Union left Cuba without its main lifeline. The country has faced three nationwide blackouts since October. Official figures indicate that the population has decreased by at least one million people, or 10 percent, since the pandemic. More than 675,000 of those Cubans have moved to the United States," the report emphasizes.
In the context of the tenth anniversary of the restoration of diplomatic relations between Cuba and the United States, the report describes how Cubans cope daily with prolonged electricity outages, long lines in supermarkets with limited supplies, and the constant departure of family and friends to foreign lands.
"Ten years ago, there was hope. Now, there is desperation," summarized several interviewees from the island.
The article also highlights the collapse of tourism, the closure of private businesses, and the deterioration of urban infrastructure, with streets filled with garbage and a pervasive sense of "misery."
The preliminary report from the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) projects a decline of 0.1% in Cuba's GDP for 2025, placing the country, alongside Haiti, among the weakest economies in Latin America.
Despite this outlook, Cuba's Minister of Economy and Planning, Joaquín Alonso Vázquez, recently stated that he expected a 1% growth in GDP for 2025, based on a potential recovery in tourism, an increase in exports, and the revitalization of productive sectors.
The VII Report on the State of Social Rights in Cuba from the Cuban Observatory of Human Rights (OCDH) reveals that 89% of the population lives in extreme poverty. Reports on social media have shown elderly individuals fainting in the streets and even dying, literally, from hunger.
The food crisis tops the list of social issues, followed by power outages and inflation.
The document states that "seven out of ten Cubans have stopped having breakfast, lunch, or dinner due to lack of money or food shortages," while only 15% can have three meals a day without interruptions.
The analysis from The New York Times comes on the tenth anniversary of the restoration of diplomatic relations between Cuba and the United States, highlighting the gap between the expectations for change that existed at that time and the harsh reality today.
The regime in Havana does not acknowledge its incompetence and continues to blame the U.S. embargo for the collapse of the so-called Cuban revolution.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Crisis in Cuba
Why is it considered that Cuba is experiencing its worst crisis since the Revolution?
Cuba is facing an unprecedented economic, social, and energy crisis, even surpassing the Special Period of the 1990s. The combination of nationwide blackouts, a migration crisis, and an economic standstill has profoundly deteriorated the quality of life for Cubans, with 89% of the population living in extreme poverty.
What impact does the energy crisis have on the daily lives of Cubans?
The energy crisis has resulted in prolonged blackouts that impact both daily life and essential services. Hospitals and health centers are experiencing power outages, and the lack of electricity also affects the availability of food and medicine. This situation exacerbates the already precarious economic and social conditions on the island.
How has the Cuban government responded to the crisis?
The Cuban government has attempted to justify the crisis by blaming the U.S. embargo, but it has not implemented effective measures to alleviate its impact on the population. Government responses have been slow and inadequate, and repressive policies continue to hinder civil society from organizing to seek solutions.
What are the economic prospects for Cuba in 2025?
The Cuban government forecasts a GDP growth of 1% for 2025, but many experts view these projections as unrealistic. The Cuban economy faces significant challenges, such as an outdated production system, resource shortages, and high inflation, which impede economic recovery.
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