Leonardo Padura Critiques Havana's Decline: "Marginality, Violence, Poverty, and Inequality Have Increased"

The acclaimed author Leonardo Padura Fuentes has voiced concerns over the current state of Havana, stating that only a select few can afford to dine at restaurants or visit nightclubs. He highlighted the rise in marginality, violence, poverty, and inequality. In a conversation with Infobae, Padura reminisced about the city's glamorous past during the 1940s and 50s, which gradually faded due to government actions. He expressed regret over the worsening power outages and shortages that plague the city today.

"Nighttime Havana has become polarized," Padura remarked. "It is a city enjoyed by tourists and the new Cuban elite, those who have established businesses and possess economic means. A regular Cuban cannot afford to spend $60 to $100 per person at a restaurant or cabaret. This luxury is now reserved for a privileged few."

The distinguished intellectual criticized reggaeton, describing it as a reflection of societal decline, while clarifying it is a symptom rather than the cause. "It's a musically simplistic genre with lyrics ranging from realistic depictions to vulgar and obscene language. It is often sexist, racist, and homophobic," he stated. "Reggaeton has dominated the Caribbean soundscape, but the real issue is that it signifies cultural and ethical deterioration in our societies."

Padura, a recipient of the 2015 Princess of Asturias Award, elaborated on the factors contributing to this deterioration. "Marginality has increased, violence has surged. Poverty and inequality have also grown," he explained. He noted that despite Cuba's socialist political and economic system, it increasingly resembles other nations, a change significantly influenced by internet access. The economic crisis has fractured Cuban society, with pockets of wealth emerging amidst widespread poverty.

"This situation needs an outlet, but reggaeton hasn't been the primary escape; instead, it's been emigration," Padura pointed out. "In the past three years, 1.2 million people have left Cuba, constituting between 10 to 12 percent of the country's population."

When asked about Havana's future, Padura suggested it hinges on potential political and economic changes. "Havana could continue deteriorating, or it might see the rise of these enormous hotels that seem like alien structures dropped into the city," he criticized. "The ideal future, not just for Havana but globally, is one where every individual can live with dignity from the fruits of their labor. Achieving this would create more hospitable cities, as life would become more pleasant for everyone," he concluded.