In a lengthy speech filled with epic, historical, and defensive tones, Miguel Díaz-Canel conceded on Saturday that the Cuban government's institutional communication remains a "pending issue" amid a deep economic, social, and energy crisis that has severely affected the quality of life for most Cubans. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the X Plenary Session of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC), the leader admitted that the state's approach to informing, arguing, and persuading fails to connect with the public, especially young people.
Nonetheless, his self-criticism was accompanied by the usual rhetoric about the blockade, media warfare, and "heroic resistance" as almost absolute justifications for all the country's problems. "Here, the much-discussed political, institutional, and social communication plays a decisive role—it's a pending issue that requires more quality, articulation, force, clarity, coherence, and more attractive methods," he stated, without identifying any responsible parties or pointing out the state structures that have ignored citizens' calls for transparency, efficiency, and genuine dialogue over the years.
Díaz-Canel called for a closer approach to the youth, albeit from a slogan-laden perspective, using history as a pedagogical tool. He suggested, for example, that schools write Marti's quotes on blackboards and read Martí's articles as an antidote to demobilization. The uncomfortable question arises: Does the government believe that with Martí's phrases or Fidel's legacy, it can restore lost trust in a generation growing up amid blackouts, shortages, censorship, and lack of opportunities? Is this youth truly being heard when they protest, emigrate, or question?
One of the most striking parts of the speech was the assertion that "Cuba is a country at war," not only due to the economic embargo but also because of what he described as "information bombs" launched by foreign media and social networks. The leader also acknowledged the accumulation of "problems and unacceptable behaviors" and that many policies are implemented with distortions. However, no officials, agencies, or direct responsible parties were named, nor was any accountability taken by those who have governed the country for decades.
There was no mention of the limitations of the centralized model, the lack of civil liberties, or the absence of real mechanisms for citizen oversight. "Popular participation" remains an abstract concept in a country where independent media is persecuted, uncomfortable criticism is criminalized, and key decisions are made in closed circles. Amid economic deterioration, the speech also included familiar promises: to boost the economy, remove bureaucratic obstacles, stabilize the electrical system, produce more food, and encourage foreign investment. Nothing that Cubans haven't heard in other plenaries, speeches, or failed plans.
Additionally, a commemorative program was announced for Fidel Castro's centennial, aiming to "project his thinking in the face of current challenges." A decision that, instead of looking to the future, once again resorts to nostalgia as a tool of legitimacy. The leader concluded by speaking of "intelligent resistance" and "not giving up," as if the strain wasn't already unbearable for an exhausted population. In a country where thousands emigrate each month, hope is not manufactured with more slogans or deferred promises.
Understanding Cuba's Current Challenges
What did Díaz-Canel admit about government communication?
Díaz-Canel admitted that the Cuban government's institutional communication is lacking and fails to effectively connect with the public, particularly the youth.
How did Díaz-Canel propose to engage with the youth?
He suggested using history as a pedagogical tool, such as writing Martí's quotes on school blackboards and reading his articles to combat demobilization among the youth.
What challenges did Díaz-Canel acknowledge in his speech?
He acknowledged the accumulation of problems and unacceptable behaviors, and that many policies are implemented with distortions, but did not specify any direct responsible parties.