Independent Cuban journalist Reinaldo Escobar has declared that the current state of Cuban society represents a "complete failure" of the revolutionary project initiated by Fidel Castro in 1959. In an interview with Cuban-French journalist Wendy Guerra for the American news channel CNN, Escobar, co-founder of the independent portal 14yMedio alongside Yoani Sánchez, examined the severe crisis plaguing the island. He attributed this crisis to the widening gap between the Cuban people and their government.
Escobar critiques the current state of Cuba as a "complete failure," especially when juxtaposed with the founding ideals of the revolutionary process: freedom, sovereignty, social justice, and the aspiration for a cultured, collaborative "new man." The independent journalist, writer, and chronicler highlights that the island, once the stronghold of the socialist revolution, is now enduring a period of extreme hardship: unsanitary conditions in hospitals, endless power outages, neglect of the most vulnerable, hunger, shortages, and a total lack of protection for its citizens.
The Crisis Deepens: A Nation in Despair
The dwindling trust in the authorities is becoming increasingly evident, while fear of protest is on the rise. This fear has been exacerbated by the government's strict control, which has harshly suppressed any dissent since the protests on July 11, 2021. The article, titled "Cuba, 66 Years Later: The Revolution Has Reached Retirement Age," discusses these issues.
Escobar analyzes that the so-called Cuban revolution, which once promised a prosperous society, has fallen far short of its initial expectations. In his words, "those who were once deemed irrational were actually right." He explains that independent media in Cuba, such as 14yMedio, face immense challenges in obtaining reliable information. The lack of access to official sources, widespread fear among citizens, and misinformation from State Security hinder reporters' work.
Hope for Change: A Call for Internal Transformation
Escobar expresses little optimism that external aid can resolve the crisis facing Cuba. He believes the island needs more than international assistance—a "miracle" that can only be realized through internal change driven by Cubans themselves. According to Escobar, the real solution for Cuba lies in profound social transformation, beginning with the decriminalization of political dissent, the abolition of repressive laws, and the release of political prisoners.
The interview concludes that Cuba remains a nation trapped between its revolutionary history and a present filled with despair, asserting that the revolution, now 66 years old, has "entered retirement age."
Understanding Cuba's Current Crisis
What are the primary causes of Cuba's current crisis?
The primary causes include the growing division between the populace and government, unsanitary conditions, power outages, neglect of vulnerable populations, and a lack of citizen protection.
How do independent journalists like Reinaldo Escobar view the Cuban revolution?
Independent journalists like Reinaldo Escobar view the Cuban revolution as having failed to meet its original promises of freedom, sovereignty, and social justice.
What changes does Reinaldo Escobar suggest for Cuba?
Escobar suggests profound social change, including the decriminalization of political dissent, the abolition of repressive laws, and the release of political prisoners.