The Intelligence from The Economist White flagged: Cuba’s muted protests
Nov 16, 2021
In this insightful discussion, Roseanne Lake, The Economist's Cuba correspondent, analyzes the government's crackdown on protests in Cuba and the symbolic significance of white roses for the resilient movement seeking reform. Meanwhile, Greg Karlstrom, the Middle East correspondent, shares insights on Saudi Arabia's ambitious Vision 2030, focusing on the challenges and potential of diversifying the economy through tourism and innovative agricultural practices. The conversation weaves together themes of repression, courage, and the future of economic development.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Muted Protests in Cuba
- The Cuban government suppressed planned protests, driving the movement underground.
- White sheets in windows became a subtle symbol of dissent, replacing planned street demonstrations.
Cuba's Struggles and Archipelago's Rise
- Cuba faces shortages of food and medicine, worsened by COVID-19 and attributed to U.S. sanctions by President Diaz-Canel.
- Protests are organized by Archipelago, a civic movement advocating for political freedoms and peaceful solutions.
Government's Repression Tactics
- The Cuban government employed creative repression tactics, including banning white roses and sheets, symbols of the protests.
- Security forces surrounded key figures' homes and disrupted planned demonstrations with orchestrated counter-protests.