The Americas Quarterly Podcast Cuba’s Post-Castro Chapter
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Apr 20, 2021 Political scientist Javier Corrales joins to discuss Cuba's future in the wake of Raúl Castro's resignation. He explores the regime's cautious political landscape, the limits of proposed reforms, and the significance of artist-led protests like Movimiento San Isidro. Corrales contrasts Biden's approach to U.S.-Cuba relations with Obama's. The conversation also delves into the impact of monetary reform on everyday Cubans and the viral protest song "Patria y Vida," questioning whether it signifies a substantial shift in Cuban society.
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Change Without a Clean Break
- Raul Castro's departure is significant but not a clean break from the Castro era.
- Many old-guard leaders remain, so political change will likely be gradual and constrained.
Gorbachev Fear Shapes Policy
- The new leadership recognizes economic collapse but fears a Gorbachev-style unraveling.
- That fear constrains political reforms even as economic problems mount.
Bold Announcements, Small Implementation
- Havana often announces bold economic reforms but delivers limited implementation.
- Promised sector liberalizations repeatedly exclude key industries like telecoms and wholesale.