The influencer Kleydis Chong interviewed young people in Havana who were chatting on the streets. When asked, "Do you plan to leave the country?", one of them made a comment that reflects the sentiment of thousands of people on the island.
“Right now... Who doesn’t have plans to leave the country?”, the young man responded to the camera with resignation and a smile filled with uncertainty. He then added, “Having plans doesn’t mean having possibilities. Those are two very different things.”
The young Cuban said that he could have everything planned for his departure, but he made it clear that now in Cuba there are new economic and migratory barriers that prevent many people from leaving the country and pursuing that dream of freedom.
Among the destinations he could still migrate to, he mentioned Nicaragua, Mexico, Uruguay, or Brazil, although he ruled out the latter due to the language.
Graduated in veterinary zootechnics in 2024, he is currently dedicated to dog grooming and does photography work as a hobby. However, he admits that what he earns barely covers his living expenses and basic needs.
Serious migratory and demographic crisis in Cuba
The data from the National Office of Statistics and Information (ONEI) shows that the country lost more than 300,000 inhabitants in 2024 and has the lowest birth rate in decades.
The Cuban population effectively decreased to 10,055,968 inhabitants. Between 2021 and 2023, the net migration balance was -1,005,006 people.
During that period, more than one million Cubans left the country, while only 6,263 immigrants arrived on the island. Additionally, there was a negative natural balance, with more deaths than births.
The regime acknowledges the need to halt the exodus, but does not promote effective measures to reverse the trend.
Testimonials like that of this young man reflect the sentiments of a generation marked by uncertainty and the need to seek opportunities outside of Cuba that they cannot find within a country characterized by shortages, inflation, political repression, and a lack of freedoms.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Migration and Demographic Crisis in Cuba
What is the current situation of migration in Cuba?
Cuba is experiencing a serious migration crisis, with over one million Cubans having left the country between 2021 and 2023. In 2024, more than 250,000 people emigrated, and it is estimated that the exodus continues at the same intensity. This phenomenon is accompanied by a significant population decline and a decrease in birth rates.
What factors are driving the massive emigration of Cubans?
The massive emigration of Cubans is being driven by a combination of economic, political, and social factors. The economic crisis, high inflation, lack of job opportunities, and political repression are some of the main reasons. Additionally, new economic and migration barriers further complicate leaving the country.
How is the demographic crisis affecting the Cuban economy?
The demographic crisis is having a significant negative impact on the Cuban economy. The population decline and aging population are reducing the available labor force, which affects economic production and the sustainability of the pension system. Furthermore, the demographic dependency ratio is increasing, meaning there are fewer workers to support an increasingly aging population.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to address the migration crisis?
So far, the Cuban government has not implemented effective measures to reverse the migration trend. Although the need to stop the exodus and encourage birth rates is acknowledged, current policies have been insufficient. The lack of an updated census since 2012 also complicates the planning of appropriate strategies to address the demographic crisis.
What are the future prospects for the population of Cuba?
The future outlook for the population of Cuba is concerning. The population is expected to continue declining due to the low birth rate and the ongoing exodus of citizens. The aging population exacerbates the situation, impacting the economy and the healthcare system. Without significant changes in government policies, the demographic and economic situation of the country will continue to deteriorate.
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