The dawn of January 1, 2025, in Havana reflects the harsh reality faced by Cubans, with many households having lost the hope that comes with the arrival of a new year.
Images shared on Facebook by the user Pedro Luis García show empty streets, even in areas like El Vedado, where public spaces were traditionally vibrant during New Year celebrations.
Cubans are staying home because there are no resources to celebrate the holidays during this time. New Year's has reopened the wounds of families divided by the migration crisis. Many tables remained without even a salad to share with their loved ones.
The state-run press acknowledged the severity of the economic situation facing the people of Cuba. The newspaper Girón, based in Matanzas, recently highlighted how unchecked inflation and the lack of basic resources have impacted Cuban families.
"Celebrating with pork, rice with black beans, and cassava—a tradition for decades—has become an unattainable luxury," the outlet acknowledges.
The year 2024 ended with an increase in daily hardships and power outages. The gradual removal of subsidies for basic goods, announced by Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz, is just one of the measures that have intensified the crisis.
In this context, images of empty streets symbolize the impact of a declining economy, where uncertainty and discouragement prevail. For many Cubans, the hope for a better 2025 seems as empty as the avenues of Havana on the morning of this first of January.
Meanwhile, the population continues to seek ways to survive and keep their traditions alive amidst a reality that demands resilience and constant adaptation.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Economic and Social Crisis in Cuba in 2025
Why do the streets of Havana wake up empty on January 1, 2025?
The streets of Havana wake up empty due to the severe economic crisis facing Cuba, which has led many Cubans to forgo celebrating New Year's Eve because of a lack of resources and basic goods. Uncontrolled inflation and the gradual removal of subsidies have intensified daily challenges, leaving the population unable to celebrate as they did in previous years.
What is the impact of inflation on Cuban festivities?
Inflation has had a devastating impact on Cuban festivities, rendering basic products like pork, rice, and beans inaccessible for most families. As a result, Cuban tables are largely empty during celebrations, reflecting a critical economic landscape where the tradition of sharing a festive dinner has become a luxury.
What measures has the Cuban government taken in response to the economic crisis?
The Cuban government has implemented measures such as the elimination of subsidies for the basic basket of goods and the partial dollarization of the economy. However, these measures have increased the economic burden on families, worsened their ability to access food, and led to greater food insecurity. Moreover, the government has projected an economic growth of 1% for 2025, although this goal seems unrealistic given the current situation.
How does the Cuban population react to optimistic government speeches?
The Cuban population is reacting with increasing frustration and skepticism to the government’s optimistic rhetoric. The statements made by leader Díaz-Canel, which aim to downplay the severity of the crisis, are seen as disconnected from the day-to-day reality faced by citizens. This has led to social discontent, particularly because no concrete solutions are being offered for the structural economic challenges the country is experiencing.
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