Cuban dissident Antonio Rodiles has once again publicly questioned the absence of political will to provide unrestricted internet access to Cuba. In a recent interview with journalist Tania Costa, he highlighted the lack of any official declaration indicating plans to implement such access.
Since 2018, Rodiles has been advocating for free internet connectivity for Cubans. He pointed to the events of July 11, 2021, as evidence of the crucial role of the internet in mass protest movements. "It's vital for people to stay connected in real-time and understand what's happening across the island, how the regime is acting, and how many are taking to the streets," he stated.
The Argument Against Regime Authorization
Rodiles dismisses the notion that special authorization or receivers are necessary within the island. "Absolutely not, Tania, absolutely not," he asserted, countering claims that receivers or antennas are required. "No, sir," he emphasized.
He suggests employing drones, balloons, or airships flying in international airspace, approximately 20 kilometers high, to relay the signal. "International airspace is around 20 kilometers, so we could have these devices flying, transmitting the internet signal, allowing people to connect using their phones," he explained.
Why the Regime Resists Free Internet
Rodiles candidly explained why the regime would never permit free internet access: "It's like putting a gun to their head and pulling the trigger. They know it's not the same to control 10,000, 15,000, or 20,000 people as it is to suddenly have a million people out on the streets across Cuba."
He also recalled that Florida Governor Ron DeSantis mentioned a company estimated the service installation cost at about $25 million. However, the company withdrew after the Biden administration revoked its license.
The Silence and Political Will
Rodiles expressed his amazement, not just at the absence of implementation, but at the "total silence" surrounding the issue. He directly attributes this to a lack of political will: "Why is there a reluctance to allow the Cuban people to play a leading role, not only in a supposed change process but right now, in overthrowing the tyranny?"
Regarding available resources, Rodiles noted that Radio and TV Martí operates with an annual budget of roughly $30 million. He mentioned that Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart announced increases in democracy promotion budgets, which could potentially fund internet services. The Cuban regime rejected Starlink's offer from the Trump administration in April, with official media admitting it would create an "uncontrollable parallel network" for the state.
Opposition and External Challenges
Rodiles concluded with a personal grievance: when internal Cuban opposition needed support, it faced smear campaigns. "The regime told a colleague at one point: we won't smear Rodiles because he's being taken down from outside. To that extent," he revealed, suggesting that some exile individuals and institutions chose to weaken internal opposition rather than strengthen it.
Understanding Internet Challenges in Cuba
Why is free internet access important for Cuban protesters?
Free internet access is crucial as it enables real-time communication and coordination among protesters, allowing them to share information about regime actions and mobilize effectively across the island.
What alternatives does Antonio Rodiles suggest for providing internet in Cuba?
Rodiles proposes using drones, balloons, or airships in international airspace to relay internet signals, allowing Cubans to access the internet without relying on the regime's infrastructure.
How has the Cuban regime responded to external internet service offers?
The Cuban regime has rejected offers like Starlink's proposal from the Trump administration, citing concerns over creating an uncontrollable network that would challenge state control.