An elderly disabled street vendor in Havana was the victim of a robbery early Friday morning, when a young man stole several of her goods and personal belongings.
The incident, reported in a video report by the independent outlet Cubanet, occurred around four in the morning, when the woman, identified as Eiliana González, was alone in the park where she displays her merchandise.
The thief snatched a box containing personal belongings, clothes, toiletries, and sneakers. According to the victim, the man was under the influence of the drug known as "el químico."
The woman, 64 years old, reported that she suffers from several chronic illnesses, including diabetes, and has been living alone since the death of her parents.
“Why do they come to rob me? I have been a fighter for many years. The State pays me barely 1,543 pesos in pension and that is not enough for anything,” she declared in tears.
Despite her physical limitations —she has seven screws and two plates in one leg after surgery— the woman chased the thief and was able to identify him as a young man from the area whom she had seen loitering days before.
The situation reflects the vulnerability of the elderly and sick individuals in the context of an economic crisis and increasing insecurity in Cuba.
For many, like Eiliana, their livelihood depends on street sales of cigars and basic products, which exposes them to theft and assaults without effective protection from the authorities.
In Cuba, low pensions have left many elderly individuals in a situation of extreme vulnerability. Retirement on the island barely covers a fraction of basic expenses, forcing thousands of senior citizens to seek alternatives for survival.
Starting in September 2025, pensions will see an increase. Those up to 2,472 pesos will receive an increase of 1,528 pesos, effectively doubling the current minimum pension of 1,528 pesos. Pensions ranging from 2,473 to 3,999 pesos will be increased to reach a monthly total of 4,000 pesos.
Although welcomed by some, it does not solve the precarious situation faced by retirees.
Many are then forced to re-enter the informal economy: they sell small products on the street, rent out rooms in their homes or rely on assistance from relatives abroad.
For those who do not receive remittances, the situation is much more critical, as they rely solely on the ration book, which is insufficient for an entire month.
Frequently Asked Questions about Insecurity and the Situation of the Elderly in Cuba
How does insecurity affect the elderly in Cuba?
Insecurity in Cuba puts the elderly at risk, as they are exposed to theft and aggression due to the lack of effective protection from the authorities. The economic situation forces many seniors to rely on street vending, further exposing them to these dangers.
What measures has the Cuban government taken regarding pensions for retirees?
The Cuban government has announced an increase in pensions starting from September 2025. Pensions up to 2,472 pesos will receive an increase of 1,528 pesos, while those between 2,473 and 3,999 pesos will rise to 4,000 pesos per month. However, this increase remains insufficient to cope with inflation and the high cost of living on the island.
How do elderly Cubans survive on the current pensions?
Many elderly Cubans survive thanks to the support of relatives abroad or through the informal economy, such as selling products on the street. The current pensions are insufficient to cover basic living costs and the situation is even more critical for those who do not receive remittances from abroad, as they rely solely on the rationing booklet.
What is the perception of the Cuban population regarding the increase in pensions?
The perception among Cuban citizens is that the adjustments to pensions are insufficient given the serious economic crisis the country is experiencing. Despite official announcements, most retirees continue to face hardship and rely on family support to survive.
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