The bishops of Cuba have emphasized the urgent need for the island nation’s leaders to tackle the ongoing economic crisis. In a strongly worded statement released on June 15, the Cuban bishops’ conference highlighted the widespread dissatisfaction among citizens, noting that the call for change is growing louder across the country. “It is time to create an environment, free from internal and external pressures, where Cuba can implement the necessary structural, social, economic, and political reforms,” the bishops stated.
Cuba’s economic struggles have intensified in recent years, marked by rising inflation, increased poverty, a declining quality of life, and frequent power outages due to an outdated electric grid. Experts suggest that the nation is facing its most severe crisis since gaining independence from Spain in 1898. In their Jubilee Year message, titled “Pilgrims of Hope,” the bishops acknowledged that global inequalities and injustices make fostering hope particularly challenging in Cuba.
Many Cubans are losing faith, overwhelmed by unfulfilled promises and harsh living conditions. The church has called for a restoration of hope, which could inspire collective action towards the common good. The bishops urged those in power to take decisive action and implement structural changes to address the nation’s challenges. This message follows a visit by Archbishop Paul Gallagher, Vatican secretary for relations with states, to Havana earlier in the month.
— new from National Catholic Reporter