The Cuban telecommunications company, ETECSA, recently attempted to clarify distinctions between various terms related to new measures that restrict national currency recharges while expanding dollar-based services. This move sparked criticism from Cubans who expressed their dissatisfaction with the company's explanations.
Responding to user inquiries, ETECSA outlined that a recharge involves adding funds to a mobile device, which then converts to mobile balance. A transfer refers to moving balance from one line to another, and purchasing plans involves buying bundled offers of resources such as data, voice, and SMS.
Numerous individuals took the opportunity to criticize the restrictions and voiced that their dissatisfaction comes not from misunderstanding, but from discontent with the pricing structure. One Cuban remarked, "This is being forced upon us. We're not ignorant; stop with the explanations. We know you ignore students and don't let them speak. It's shameful seeing photos of the Minister's daughter, who clearly has money, and the question is: where does it come from?"
Many questioned why recharges are being limited in Cuba when some people's work requires more than one. "Why does Transfermóvil restrict me to only two recharges and two plan purchases per day? I need more than two plans daily if I need more voice or SMS, and I can't do it. Didn't they consider this?" one user asked.
Critics suggested that beyond generating foreign currency, ETECSA aims to limit Cubans' access to information. "What they want is to prohibit without prohibiting. How? By gradually cutting off internet access to prevent information from getting in, just like Stalin but in a modern way," a commenter wrote.
ETECSA has justified the tariff increases by citing a financial crisis triggered by fraud and a 60% loss in international revenue. However, this explanation has been met with skepticism by the public, who criticize the lack of transparency and the negative impact on basic service access.
The shift towards dollar-based services by ETECSA restricts connectivity access for those without foreign currency, exacerbating economic and digital inequality in Cuba, and leaving many without essential communication services.
Frequently Asked Questions about ETECSA's Service Changes
What is the difference between a recharge and a transfer?
A recharge involves adding funds to a mobile device which converts to mobile balance, while a transfer involves moving balance from one phone line to another.
Why are Cubans unhappy with ETECSA's recent policy changes?
Cubans are dissatisfied not due to a lack of understanding but because of the restrictive pricing and limited access to essential communication services, especially under the economic constraints many face.
How do ETECSA's policies affect economic and digital inequality in Cuba?
The shift towards dollar-based services limits access to connectivity for those without foreign currency, exacerbating economic and digital inequality by denying many access to vital communication services.