With a sample size of over 10,000 individuals, the independent polling organization Cubadata has revealed that merely three percent of island residents surveyed consider themselves firmly socialist, while a staggering 85.9% yearn for a shift to a more open model. Although first reported by Diario de Cuba, the full data will be publicly released in July, stemming from the panel "Exploring Possible Futures," which compiles information from six surveys conducted between September 2023 and February 2024.
This public sentiment is a reflection of the current economic, political, and social landscape in the country, marked by a systemic crisis that has necessitated high levels of resilience, as indicated by 73.4% of the study's participants. Of those surveyed, 46% maintain some level of autonomy, while 67% have been forced to "find solutions" to survive. Additionally, 77.1% have altered their life plans, 64.3% experienced a transformation in their personal values, 78.8% find revolutionary principles irrelevant, and 79% view socialism in Cuba as a declining system.
The study, as mentioned by Diario de Cuba, highlights a prevailing pessimistic outlook on Cuba's future (53.8%). Of those polled, 11.2% consider themselves "reformist socialists," 14.2% identify as "centrist and neutral," 21.7% as "liberal or pro-market," 16% align with "another ideology," and 33.9% do not identify with any ideology.
Call for Major Changes
The majority of respondents believe profound changes in regime and government are necessary, including the establishment of a multi-party system with a more active and leadership role for civil society. Additionally, there is a need to empower youth leadership around political and social reforms.
As the study progressed, it became evident that trust and satisfaction with the Government have decreased. The perception of the respondents regarding the State's violent reaction dropped slightly by 2%, potentially due to strategies in the regime's discourse following the protests that have continued since July 11th.
The regime has recognized the public's dissatisfaction and has cited economic arguments regarding the protests, while also proposing a return to Marxist political economy to find solutions, as defended by President Miguel Díaz-Canel.
On its website, Cubadata explains that its project originated near the 38th parallel in South Korea during a conference on how to obtain and provide information and statistics in closed societies. Due to restrictions and censorship from official institutions, as well as control over internet content and email, their goal is to conduct independent population studies in Cuba, where no consulting firm independent of the Government exists.
Key Insights from Cubadata’s Survey
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers related to the recent survey conducted by Cubadata, shedding light on the public sentiment in Cuba.
What percentage of Cubans wants a more open model?
According to the survey, 85.9% of Cubans desire a shift towards a more open model.
How many Cubans identify as "firmly socialist"?
Only three percent of Cubans surveyed consider themselves firmly socialist.
What is the general sentiment about Cuba's future?
The survey indicates a pessimistic outlook, with 53.8% of respondents feeling negative about Cuba's future.
What changes do Cubans believe are necessary?
Most respondents believe that significant changes in the regime and government are necessary, including a multi-party system and a more active role for civil society and youth leadership.