Protests in Cuba Over Economic Crisis
Protests erupt in Cuba's second-largest city, Santiago, over food and power shortages amid worsening economic crisis. Demonstrations rare in tightly controlled communist-run island. U.S. sanctions and centrally planned economy blamed for economic woes. Calls for shift to market economy. U.S. and Cuba exchange words over protests. Cuban-American community rallies in support. Cuban-born rapper urges military to side with people. Large protests since July 11, 2021, ended in crackdown. Migration wave from the island. U.S. State Department denies backing protests.
Key Points
- Rare protests erupt in Cuba's second-largest city, Santiago, over food and power shortages
- Economic crisis worsened by U.S. sanctions and centrally planned economy
- Calls for shift towards market economy to address longstanding issues
- U.S. and Cuba engage in war of words over protests and alleged interference
- Diaspora community outside Cuba shows support for protesters
- Cuban-born rapper urges military to side with people in ongoing crisis
Pros
- Highlighting the struggles faced by everyday Cubans
- Shedding light on the economic crisis in Cuba
- Promoting awareness of human rights issues in the country
Cons
- Risk of further crackdowns by Cuban authorities
- Tense relationship between the U.S. and Cuba
- Potential for escalation of social unrest