A retired university professor survives by selling recycled bags at a central corner of his city, Santiago de Cuba. This case reflects the precarious situation faced by many elderly individuals on the island.
The complaint was shared on social media by the writer Yasser Sosa Tamayo, who identified the man as “Don Manuel,” an academic who taught Cuban History at the university for many years, directed a pre-university institution, wrote books, and gave lectures abroad.
Currently, he survives by selling plastic bags to be able to feed himself. "El Profe," as he was known by generations of students, was recognized by Sosa despite his faded clothing, patched cane, and the marks of the sun on his skin.
When the writer asked him if he needed anything, the former professor replied, “What I need cannot be bought anywhere, kid.”
The case has generated outrage on social media and reignites the criticism of the pension system in Cuba, where thousands of elderly people survive on insufficient incomes amid inflation and the high cost of living.
This week, the Cuban government announced an increase in minimum pensions to 1,528 Cuban pesos per month (less than 5 dollars at the informal exchange rate), a measure celebrated by Prime Minister Manuel Marrero but questioned by the public.
"With that, you can barely buy a dozen eggs," commented a user on X (formerly Twitter). Others reported that the money is not enough to cover even basic products in the informal market.
Cuban economist Mauricio de Miranda warned that unsubstantiated increases will worsen inflation and will not truly improve the lives of retirees.
"The case of Don Manuel is not an isolated incident," said an internet user. Indeed, it is the norm in a country that has turned its back on those who gave everything for a regime that abandoned them.
In the midst of the economic crisis, the government itself acknowledged this week that over 310,000 people in Cuba live in vulnerable conditions, although independent organizations claim that the actual number could be much higher.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Situation of Retirees in Cuba
Why do retirees in Cuba face economic hardship?
Retirees in Cuba face economic hardship due to insufficient pensions and high inflation, making the cost of living unaffordable. The minimum pension is around 1,528 Cuban pesos, equivalent to less than 5 dollars, which does not even cover basic necessities. The situation is worsened by the lack of productive support that could sustain an increase in pensions without generating further inflation.
What measures has the Cuban government taken to improve the situation of retirees?
The Cuban government announced an increase in pensions, doubling the minimum to 3,056 Cuban pesos. However, this measure does not address the precarious situation caused by inflation and the high cost of living. Basic products, such as oil or a carton of eggs, can cost the same or more than the minimum pension, forcing many to rely on remittances or external assistance.
What is the impact of inflation on the pensions of retired Cubans?
The impact of inflation on pensions is devastating. Inflation in Cuba exceeds 30%, which significantly diminishes the purchasing power of pensions. This means that even if the government increases pensions, the additional money is quickly eaten up by rising prices, without truly improving the quality of life for retirees.
How does the economic crisis affect the daily lives of retired Cubans?
The economic crisis severely impacts the daily lives of retirees, who often have to resort to selling recycled products or searching through the trash to supplement their income. The scarcity of basic goods and high prices make their survival even more challenging, often forcing them to rely on the charity of neighbors or family members abroad.
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