Cuba’s Communist Party Confronts Economic Challenges
In Havana, the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC) recently held a significant meeting to address the pressing economic and social issues affecting the island. During the session, party leader and President Miguel Díaz-Canel urged members to engage more actively with the everyday concerns of the citizens.
Roberto Morales, the second-highest official in the PCC, highlighted that Cuba is experiencing one of the toughest periods in its history. He pointed out several difficulties, including shortages of goods, an energy crisis, and struggles in various important sectors like sugar and food production. This situation has also severely impacted tourism, a vital source of income for the country.
Morales laid part of the blame for the current crisis on U.S. sanctions. He reported that Cuba faced losses exceeding $5 billion from March 2023 to February 2024 as a result of these restrictions.
Recently, a memo from the Trump administration mentioned plans to tighten sanctions against Cuba in hopes of encouraging political change on the island.
While there is no recent number available for PCC membership, it was noted that as of 2021, Díaz-Canel referred to over a million members, including the Union of Young Communists. However, the organization has felt the effects of the significant migration wave in recent years.
The Cuban Constitution designates the PCC as the guiding force of the state, meaning that all political and economic activities undertaken by the government must align with the party’s directives. As the only legally recognized political party in Cuba, the PCC carries considerable authority.
This gathering, the X Plenary of the PCC’s Central Committee, took place over two days. Díaz-Canel, who succeeded iconic leaders Fidel and Raúl Castro, called on his colleagues to take action in response to public criticism during this challenging time.
He emphasized the need for party members to be well-versed and present in ongoing social debates, particularly discussions taking place on social media. “We must be there to explain and delve into these conversations,” Díaz-Canel stated.
As Cuba faces a critical juncture, the PCC is under pressure to address both the immediate concerns of its people and the broader challenges that the nation confronts.
