The administration in Asturias has allocated nearly 150,000 euros to support emigrants and their descendants in Cuba who are facing challenging circumstances. This initiative, spearheaded by the Department of Presidency, Demographic Challenge, Equality, and Tourism, aims to address the essential needs of individuals born in Asturias and their direct offspring.
Application Surge and Approval Rates
This year witnessed a submission of 926 applications, out of which 833 were approved. The majority of these requests were from Cubans (606), followed by Argentinians (158), and Venezuelans (111).
Support Program Details
The aid program is divided into two main categories: one for individuals above 65 years old, and another for those aged between 18 and 64 who are victims of gender-based violence, suffer from permanent disability, or have serious health conditions preventing employment.
Funding Distribution Across Countries
The total funding sanctioned this year amounted to 440,000 euros, which is 30,000 euros more compared to 2023. The financial assistance has been allocated among 833 emigrants and their descendants in Latin America as follows:
- Argentina: 155,748 euros
- Cuba: 149,338 euros
- Venezuela: 95,379 euros
- Uruguay: 15,487 euros
- Mexico: 8,209 euros
- Chile: 7,522 euros
- Brazil: 6,209 euros
- Other Latin American countries: 2,104 euros
Variable Assistance Based on Need
According to details from the international region portal, the amount of aid varies based on the recipient's circumstances and their country of residence, considering the local purchasing power. The maximum assistance is capped at 2,000 euros, except in the case of Cuba, where the limit is 600 euros.
Increased Applications in 2024
In 2024, there were 65 more applications than in 2023, with 60 additional approvals granted.
Olaya Gómez Romano, the Director General of Emigration and Return Policies, emphasized that these financial aids underscore the commitment of the Government of Asturias to support Asturians living abroad and their descendants, ensuring their well-being regardless of their residence location.