Dear Editor,

Cuba, a country with a strong foundation in health care and education, is struggling with widespread poverty and economic hardship.

Despite being classified as a middle-income country, nearly 90 per cent of the population lives in extreme poverty, with many households unable to afford essentials, like food and housing.

The long-standing US embargo has severely hampered economic growth and development, leading to shortages and poor infrastructure.

Cuba’s socialist system has also been criticised for its limitations, and many believe that a shift towards a more capitalist model could help stimulate economic growth.

The Cuban people should not be abandoned. The international community, including Caricom, Latin America, and the United Nations, should provide assistance to help the country overcome its challenges.

Cuba’s strong social safety nets in health care and education are notable achievements, but they coexist with widespread material poverty and economic hardship. Studies have shown that Cuba’s poverty rates are alarmingly high, with 88-89 per cent of the population living in extreme poverty. The country’s gross domestic product growth has been sluggish, and the latest US sanctions could be the final blow to the Cuban economy.

It’s time to re-evaluate the relationship between the US and Cuba. How can a country with such significant social and economic challenges be considered an existential threat to the United States? The international community should come together to support the Cuban people and help them build a more prosperous future.

A potential solution could be for Cuba to adopt a bottom-up, supervised capitalist model, which could help stimulate economic growth and improve living standards and infrastructure. With the right support and guidance, Cuba could unlock its potential and become a more prosperous and stable nation.

Let’s work together to help the Cuban people overcome their challenges and build a brighter future.

Michael Spence

micspen2@hotmail.com