Roberto Morales Ojeda, the Organization Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba, recently convened with the national leadership of the Union of Young Communists (UJC) in what the organization's first secretary, Meyvis Estévez, described on Facebook as "a moment of profound significance" this past Saturday.
Estévez, known for her poetic expressions, shared a fervent account of the meeting on her personal social media, likening the official's presence to that of a supportive parent: "Arriving like a father who stands by his children in challenging times fills us with pride and also binds us to not betray that trust."
According to Estévez, the discussion focused on "the country's priorities and the youth organization's goals," with Morales Ojeda emphasizing "the vanguard role of the members and their duty to mobilize young people amid the economic and social transformations." For most Cubans, these so-called transformations translate into daily blackouts exceeding 20 hours and power shortages over 2,000 MW.
The Discrepancy Between Words and Reality
The UJC secretary went a step further in her sweetened enthusiasm, asserting that "belonging to the UJC transcends a card or meeting; it shows in the ability to lead every activity, take on tasks with discipline, and inspire others by example." This statement, considering Cuba's reality, sounds more like a fanciful slogan than an actionable plan.
The official narrative concluded with even more grandiosity: "Young people must be on the front lines, not out of obligation, but by conviction, because the current generation is tasked with preserving and continuing the Revolution for future generations."
Many Cubans question what future generations they're referring to, given that nearly 50% of emigrants are young people under 35, according to researchers from the Center for Demographic Studies (CEDEM).
Public Reaction and Skepticism
Internet users quickly responded with the irony the situation warrants. "What did they achieve? Nothing, just good living for the leaders," one user commented on the post. Another was more blunt: "We, the young, are the ones who will defeat communism." A third, without hesitation, challenged: "Name a single achievement, please."
The stark contrast between the triumphant language of the leadership and the harsh realities faced by Cuban youth could hardly be more jarring. Since 2021, over a million Cubans have fled the island, and a survey conducted in 2025 among more than 4,400 Facebook users revealed that 93% would leave the country "tomorrow" if given the chance.
Meanwhile, the UJC continues to mount propaganda campaigns—youth marches, anti-imperialist festivals, fidelista thought circles—yet membership dwindles steadily: from 609,000 in 2007 to 415,000 by 2024, a decrease of about 32%.
Meetings, gatherings, plenums, campaigns: the island's regime has spent decades perfecting the art of appearing active while solving nothing. The question Cubans keep asking on social media every time a new photo of leaders seated around a table emerges remains unanswered: what did they resolve?
Understanding the Situation of Cuban Youth
What was the main focus of Morales Ojeda's meeting with the UJC?
The meeting focused on discussing the country's priorities and the goals of the youth organization, emphasizing the role of young members in mobilizing amid economic and social changes.
How have Cuban youth reacted to the UJC's initiatives?
Many Cuban youth have expressed skepticism and irony towards the UJC's initiatives, questioning the actual achievements and highlighting the stark contrast between official rhetoric and their lived realities.
What are the membership trends for the UJC?
The UJC has seen a significant decline in membership, dropping from 609,000 in 2007 to 415,000 in 2024, marking a 32% decrease over the years.