"Hey, I'm making this short video because every time I hear a Cuban say that 98% of us left Cuba due to economic issues, not political ones... Look, from the moment you turn five, you're already caught up in the political issues in Cuba." This is how a Cuban on TikTok begins his response to those who argue that migration from the island is solely driven by economic factors, ignoring the political aspect.
The TikTok user, known as @jose.a.acosta498mm, explains how political indoctrination affects Cubans from a young age: "By the age of five, you're taught communist slogans and political beliefs are instilled into your veins. In preschool, they start telling you, 'We will be like Che', 'Long live the revolution', and all that nonsense they teach in Cuba."
He then highlights the link between politics and the economy in Cuba: "So, are you going to tell me that Cuba's economic problems aren't caused by the government? Who runs the government? Isn't it the government that directs the country's policies? The economy in Cuba is in shambles because of the government's policies towards the people."
Jose criticizes how the political system stifles economic progress: "You can't own five houses, you can't have a car, you can't run a profitable restaurant, you can't have anything. Why? Because of the government's policies over the people."
According to him, every Cuban who leaves does so for political reasons: "Every Cuban who left did so because of a political issue, and it's the government's policies over the people." He concludes, "A government's policy determines whether a people will succeed or fail, whether they will prosper or not."
The video sparked a wave of reactions. Some supported the reflection, with comments like, "In Cuba, even breathing is political," or "I have a friend who started a restaurant, it was doing well, and they shut it down and jailed him." However, there were also skeptics: "And now I ask you, how many houses, restaurants, and cars do you have outside of Cuba?"
Jose's message rekindles the debate among Cubans both on the island and abroad: Is migration truly due to economic problems, or is politics the real driving force behind this decision?
Exploring the Root Causes of Cuban Migration
Why do some people believe Cubans leave for economic reasons?
Some attribute Cuban migration to economic hardships, pointing to low wages and poor living conditions as primary factors.
What arguments support the idea that political issues drive Cuban migration?
Many argue that the oppressive political system and lack of freedoms in Cuba are significant motivators for leaving, as they hinder economic opportunity and individual rights.
How does the Cuban government's policy impact the economy?
The Cuban government's policies are seen as restrictive, limiting private enterprise and economic growth, which contributes to the nation's financial struggles.