Monthly Updates
December 2022
A new Penal Code that activists and human rights organizations warn could further limit fundamental rights, entered into force in Cuba. The new criminal code replaces legislation dating back to 1987 and could be used by Cuban authorities to reprimand dissent more easily. It includes a provision that allows anyone who “endangers the constitutional order and normal functioning” of the government to be punished with prison sentences. It also prohibits the receipt and use of funds made to finance activities “against the Cuban state and its constitutional order,” which human rights groups say could be used against independent journalists and NGOs
November 2022
On 27 November Cubans went to the polls to elect over 11,500 delegates to municipal assemblies. The elections took place at a critical moment for the country, which is facing a grave economic crisis and increasingly deteriorating living conditions. According to government figures, Cuba saw the highest abstention rate (31.5 per cent) in local elections since at least 1976. The sharp drop in voter turnout, in elections that are not competitive, with only one party on the ballot, followed calls from Cuba’s opposition to refrain from voting in protest of the administration of Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel.
October 2022
Hurricane Ian (a category 3 hurricane) made landfall in Cuba at the end of September 2022, collapsing the country’s entire electricity system and causing severe damage to housing, agriculture and telecoms services. The extent of Ian’s impact led the Cuban government to make a rare request for emergency assistance from the American government. From September and throughout October, Cubans have taken to the streets to protest the lack of power, which in turn has heightened concerns over food, fuel and medicine shortages, and the government’s slow response to the disaster. On top of the blackouts, the Cuban regime has shut down Internet service throughout the country, adding to public anger and frustration. According to some local activists, as governance continues to deteriorate, the government's response to demonstrations of popular discontent has focused on their repression.
September 2022
The government of Cuba led by President Miguel Díaz-Canel announced a new ‘family code’, in which same-sex marriage is legalized; the measure was approved in a referendum. Cuba is the latest country in Latin America to approve marriage equality (following Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Uruguay, Ecuador, Costa Rica, and Mexico). The LGBTQIA+ community has underscored the historic nature of the referendum results.
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