An exchange of opinions among Cuban actors Maikel Amelia, Jorge Martínez, and Alejandro Cuervo has sparked intense controversy on social media, as they tackle one of the questions that worries citizens both inside and outside the island: Is Cuba still a safe country?
During an interview with La Familia Cubana with Maikel Amelia, the actress asserted that “Cuba is a safe country, it is a country with incredible security,” although she acknowledged that in recent times, concerning situations have proliferated, such as drug use, as well as an increase in violence, thefts, and even homicides.
"That really catches my attention. I'm seeing kids aged 13, 14, or 15 smoking marijuana on the corners at three in the morning, falling over from the chemicals. And that worries me a lot because I'm thinking about the future of this country. To what extent are we, as parents and society, responsible?" expressed the artist.
Nevertheless, Alejandro Cuervo disagreed: “I no longer see it as a super safe country. Maybe years ago, but now it's not the same as before.”
Jorge Martínez agreed that there is a concerning increase in violence and crime on the island.
The very Maikel Amelia refined her initial statement. “It remains a safe place, but it is no longer as safe as it used to be. The safety that existed when I was a teenager is no longer there.”
The conversation is circulating on platforms like Facebook and TikTok. This debate has sparked dozens of reactions among internet users, with divided opinions, but a clear trend: many Cubans do not believe that Cuba is currently a safe country.
Reactions on social media: From irony to disillusionment
The comments on the video reflect a strong skepticism about the supposed safety that the island still maintains. Some of the most prominent opinions state:
"Cuba is a safe country... in Tras la huella nothing more," joked a user, referring to the role the actress plays in that police series on National Television.
"There is no safety even standing in a doorway with a cellphone"; "The violence is widespread. It's not just teenagers; there are also muggings for a bicycle or a phone"; or "The safety we once had was lost years ago," were some of the messages left by users.
Other comments point directly to the Cuban regime as responsible for the social decline affecting the youth and challenge the official narrative that insists on portraying a safe Cuba.
"They have made us believe that Cuba is the center of the world. But that certainty was never real; it was just that before, we didn't know everything because there was no internet."
Safety, youth, and future: The concern is growing
In his speech, Maykel Amelia also referenced his neighborhood and the environment he observes daily: "I see those children on the street in the early morning and I think: What will their future be? What do we do as a society? What responsibility do we have as parents?"
Beyond the political debate, the conversation highlighted a shared concern for the direction of Cuban youth amid an increasingly deepening economic, social, and values crisis.
Social media amplifies the debate. The perception of security in Cuba seems to be in free fall, and citizens are questioning whether they will ever feel the tranquility of past decades again.
Frequently asked questions about safety in Cuba and the debate among Cuban artists
Is Cuba still considered a safe country by Cuban artists?
Cuban artists have divided opinions on security in Cuba. Maykel Amelia stated that Cuba is a safe country, although he acknowledged an increase in violence and drug use. On the other hand, Alejandro Cuervo and Jorge Martínez expressed that security on the island has declined compared to the past.
What are the current concerns regarding security in Cuba?
Current concerns about security in Cuba include the increase in drug use and violence among youth. Maykel Amelia mentioned seeing children smoking marijuana in the early morning, which raises concerns about the future of Cuban youth.
How has the Cuban citizenry reacted to the debate on security on the island?
Cuban citizens have shown skepticism regarding safety in Cuba. Many internet users have voiced their doubts about whether the island remains a safe place, citing examples of violence and crime that contradict official statements.
What is Alejandro Cuervo's opinion on his role in the Cuban political debate?
Alejandro Cuervo has taken a careful and evasive stance on the political debate in Cuba. Although he acknowledges the existence of problems on the island, he avoids direct commitments and prefers to focus on his career and personal and family well-being.
Filed under:
