The sight of several children sleeping in the gardens of the Gran Muthu Habana Hotel, located in the exclusive Primera and 70th area of Miramar, sparked outrage on social media. This incident forced the Cuban regime to address a harsh reality often hidden by official narratives: extreme poverty and institutional neglect affecting numerous minors across Cuba.
The Estelar News broadcast reported that the children in question come from "dysfunctional families" and that legal actions were taken against the parents for "failure to fulfill parental responsibilities."
Yet, the television segment itself highlighted that the state's response was delayed, with agencies responsible for child protection failing to act until the case gained attention online.
Delayed Action and Institutional Neglect
The hotel's director revealed that she had been warning authorities for months without receiving any response. It was only after the public outcry that a government team visited the area, the schools, and the children's homes, admitting that the situation had "worsened since the start of the summer."
Attempting to frame the issue as a matter of family discipline, the government blamed "guardian irresponsibility." However, the report hinted at deeper-rooted issues: the absence of social workers, schools' failure to notice extended absences, and economic hardships compelling minors to seek food or money on the streets.
Growing Inequality and Economic Desperation
Residents in the vicinity reported that children often approach tourists, asking for "a peso or a dollar to eat." This scene is increasingly common in Havana's tourist areas.
The sight of children and adults begging on Cuba's streets underscores the growing inequality and desperation of families living in subhuman conditions, while the regime prioritizes hotel investments and tourism projects controlled by GAESA.
Contradictions in Cuba's International Image
Although Cuba presents itself to international organizations as a champion of child welfare, the reality contradicts the official narrative. The lack of effective social assistance policies and economic decline have created a situation where vulnerable children end up wandering the streets at night, sleeping in parks, or, as in this case, in the gardens of a luxury hotel.
Cuban Government's Handling of Child Poverty and Neglect
What prompted the Cuban government to respond to the children sleeping in hotel gardens?
The Cuban government addressed the issue after images of children sleeping in hotel gardens went viral on social media, sparking public outrage.
How did the authorities initially respond to the situation?
Authorities initially responded by attributing the problem to "dysfunctional families" and penalizing parents for not fulfilling their responsibilities.
What are the deeper issues beyond family discipline that contribute to child neglect in Cuba?
Deeper issues include the lack of social workers, ineffective school systems in recognizing prolonged absences, and economic challenges that drive children to the streets.