The Cuban government has launched a fresh police recruitment drive targeted at teenagers in Havana's educational institutions. This effort aims to attract young individuals to join the ranks of the Ministry of the Interior (MININT).
The official profile "Heroes in Blue in Cuba," a spokesperson for the state's repressive apparatus, shared images and messages on Facebook this Wednesday. The event took place at the Osvaldo Herrera Polytechnic, located in the Plaza de la Revolución municipality, under the slogan "Discover Your Calling with the Heroes in Blue."
Presented as a "career guidance space," the festival featured talks with officers, demonstrations of police equipment, simulated detention and patrol experiences, and the open promotion of "career opportunities" within the MININT. This organization is responsible for internal control and political repression in Cuba.
According to the official publication, the event aimed to have students "discover their future alongside those who watch over our security." However, the propaganda failed to mention that the same law enforcement forces are used by the regime to suppress protests, harass activists, and persecute dissenters.
The shared text from the page details that young attendees engaged in "interactive demonstrations and inspiring talks" with Ministry of the Interior officers, who were portrayed as the "professionals of tomorrow in meaningful and community-serving careers."
This type of recruitment campaign in schools and technical centers has become more frequent in recent years, amid a crisis of legitimacy and a personnel shortage within the police structures.
Many young Cubans refuse to associate with the MININT due to its repressive role, prompting the regime to intensify propaganda efforts in educational spaces.
As the government attempts to bolster its security forces, repression remains a primary tool for the regime to maintain social control in the face of growing public dissatisfaction and the highest migration wave in decades.
Key Questions About Police Recruitment in Cuba
Why is the Cuban government targeting schools for police recruitment?
The Cuban government is targeting schools for police recruitment in an effort to attract young individuals to join the Ministry of the Interior, amidst a shortage of personnel and a crisis of legitimacy within the police force.
What activities were included in the recruitment event?
The recruitment event featured talks with officers, demonstrations of police equipment, simulated detention and patrol experiences, and the promotion of career opportunities within the Ministry of the Interior.
How do young Cubans generally view joining the MININT?
Many young Cubans are reluctant to join the MININT due to its role in political repression and maintaining social control, leading to increased propaganda efforts by the regime in educational settings.