The massive wave of Cuban emigration has reshaped the nation's landscape, leaving behind empty homes, isolated grandparents, and mothers burdened with farewells that have no return. According to a report by La Hora de Cuba, penned by Iris Mariño and shared on Facebook, over a million Cubans have fled the island in the past three years. Many of these are young professionals who, despite their degrees, see no future in their homeland.
Personal stories mirror a shared collective pain. Rey, a 70-year-old, is now surrounded by memories as his son, grandson, and daughter-in-law have moved to Latin America. Esperanza made her way to the United States through a reunification process, leaving her daughter behind. Young artist María left after the events of July 11, 2021, parting ways with her mother and sister.
Meanwhile, Soledad, a 35-year-old mother who remains in Cuba, describes the island as "eternal punishment." Amid 20-hour power outages and the stench of spoiled food, she sheds tears in secret to shield her child from her despair. "He deserves better, he deserves dreams and light," she remarks with sorrowful eyes.
These narratives weave a tapestry of anguish and hopelessness experienced by those who, for various reasons, are trapped on the island. The exodus has left its mark across the nation: families connecting only through video calls, children growing up without their mothers, and homes that have turned into silent spaces.
For some, the objective is to start anew elsewhere; for others, death in exile comes without a final farewell from parents or siblings. There is also a third group: those resigned to living in Cuba, surviving as best they can, often without hope—the most fundamental of survival motivations.
While Cuba's population dwindles, the regime maintains a facade of normalcy. Yet the constant farewells, irreplaceable absences, and the loneliness of those left behind reveal the unseen cost of emigration. In this context, extreme poverty grips 89% of Cubans, and 78% express a desire to emigrate, according to the Eighth Study on the State of Social Rights in Cuba, released this Tuesday by the Cuban Observatory for Human Rights (OCDH).
Understanding the Impact of Cuban Emigration
What is the primary reason for the Cuban exodus?
The primary reason for the Cuban exodus is the lack of future prospects and opportunities in Cuba, especially for young professionals, despite their educational qualifications.
How does the exodus affect Cuban families?
The exodus results in families being separated, with many only able to communicate through video calls. It leads to children growing up without their mothers and homes becoming silent as they are left empty.
What percentage of Cubans live in extreme poverty?
According to the Cuban Observatory for Human Rights, 89% of Cubans are living in extreme poverty.
What percentage of Cubans want to emigrate?
The study by the Cuban Observatory for Human Rights indicates that 78% of Cubans express a desire to emigrate.