Survey Reveals Cubans' Views on the Island and in Exile

An extensive survey collecting over 42,000 responses has unveiled a striking consensus on Cuba's current state: whether residing on the island or living in exile, the predominant sentiment is a rejection of the existing political and economic system.

Conducted by a coalition of more than 20 independent digital media outlets, content creators, and Cuban civil society actors—despite being obstructed by the Cuban regime—the study also highlights differences between those enduring daily life in Cuba and those observing the crisis from abroad.

The data illustrates a blend of despair, fatigue, and a desire for change, with varying levels of intensity depending on the respondents' location.

Disparities Between Island Residents and Exiles

Out of the total responses, 24,503 were from individuals in Cuba (58%), while 17,760 came from those in exile (42%). Discontent is overwhelmingly high in both groups. Over 92% of island residents rated the national situation as dire, and among those in exile, this figure exceeds 96%.

The primary consensus is evident: the majority believes the current model is exhausted. More than 80% of participants advocate for a liberal democracy and a market-driven economy as future alternatives for the country.

However, a closer examination of the responses reveals political and emotional differences that shed light on how the Cuban crisis is experienced and interpreted from vastly different perspectives.

Exile Voices Call for Stronger Measures

Among Cuban exiles, there is a tendency towards more radical stances against the regime and stronger support for international pressure measures.

On issues related to sanctions, diplomatic isolation, and confrontational policies, exiles showed significantly greater support than those within Cuba. There was also a higher frequency of backing for a complete break with the current political system.

Open-ended responses from exiles often reflect frustration and urgency. Many express desires for "regime change," the "end of the dictatorship," or "immediate transition." Some see the measures taken by the international community thus far as insufficient.

When it comes to questions about political confrontation, exiles also displayed a more aggressive stance. Support for actions like "overthrowing the government by any means necessary" had more backing outside Cuba than within.

Moreover, there is notable admiration for prominent Republican figures in the United States within this group. Politicians like Marco Rubio received particularly high marks from exiles, while Donald Trump garnered relatively favorable support compared to other international leaders mentioned in the survey.

In many open responses, participants associate Washington's pressure with a real possibility of weakening the Cuban regime. Some even called for harsher measures against the ruling elite and increased economic restrictions targeting military-linked enterprises.

The overall tone among exiles is less cautious and more confrontational. There is a marked inclination towards a definitive break with the system and little faith in gradual reforms or partial negotiations.

Nuanced and Cautious Views Within Cuba

While opposition to the government is also widespread within Cuba, responses tend to show more prudence and political nuance.

Many participants support deep changes, but a significant portion favors "mixed" models or gradual transformations rather than an abrupt break. Some opinions blend economic openness with some form of state social protection.

In more radical questions, a greater degree of caution is evident. While exiles openly express confrontational positions, within Cuba, responses are often more ambiguous or less extreme.

This difference may be attributed to several factors: political fear, state surveillance, accumulated psychological fatigue, or simply the day-to-day experience of living under a repressive system.

Open-ended responses from the island mostly convey exhaustion. Rather than direct calls for confrontation, phrases associated with fatigue and daily survival are prevalent.

Many participants describe a country as "without a future," "paralyzed," "empty," or "unsustainable." Others speak of "surviving," "making do," or "enduring," terms closely tied to the Cuban everyday reality.

Signs of resignation are also visible. Some respondents claim to no longer believe in quick solutions or political promises from any sector. Others express distrust towards both the government and parts of the opposition.

Nevertheless, the dominant sentiment remains rejection of the current system. Even among those with more moderate positions, the general perception is that Cuba needs urgent structural changes.

Legitimacy Crisis

One of the most compelling findings of the survey is the collapse of trust in official institutions. More than 96% of participants gave the Cuban government the lowest possible rating.

The perception of a lack of representation is also nearly unanimous. Both inside and outside Cuba, around 95% believe that citizens have no real voice in the country's decision-making processes.

The survey also indicates strong support for the involvement of exiles in a future political transition. Over 80% think that Cuban emigrants should play an active role in national reconstruction.

The results paint a picture of a deeply fractured country, with citizens worn out by economic crises and increasing disconnection between the population and the political structure that has governed the island for over six decades.

While differences between Cuba and the exile community are evident in tone and radicalism, the underlying message is similar: the majority of respondents believe the current model no longer addresses the crisis the country is facing.