New optimism in Cuba about economic reforms, Freedom House study reveals

[flamingdem]

New optimism in Cuba about economic reforms, Freedom House study reveals

excerpt:
Many Cubans were excited about the prospects of economic change, particularly opening access to self-employment. But, as state jobs were slashed, many were also worried about going it alone after a lifetime of stable, if paltry, government salaries and subsidies.

But a new Freedom House survey released today shows a radical change in perceptions. Forty-one percent of Cubans say the country is making progress, compared to only 15 percent who felt optimistic about the country’s future when Freedom House last conducted field research in December 2010. In fact, today more Cubans say they would prefer to work for themselves than for the government, the survey shows.

IN PICTURES: Scenes from Cuba's economy

Less than a year ago, Cubans were “very skeptical about change. They doubted real change would happen,” says Daniel Calingaert, deputy director of programs at Freedom House and co-author of the study. This survey was carried out in June, after reforms were implemented formally at the Sixth Community Party Congress in April. And now, Mr. Calingaert says, Cubans see “change is real.”

This economic opening is the “most significant positive change to have taken place in Cuba since communism was introduced half a century ago,” the new survey concludes.

At first glance, Cuban optimism could be a good sign for the Castro government. But it could also pose additional challenges. Cubans who have tasted economic freedom say they want more, and a bit of stability has also allowed them the luxury to think beyond the day-to-day economics of feeding a family. “It’s opening people to new possibilities,” says Calingaert. “There is more interest in individual freedoms.”

http://www.csmonitor.com/World/Americas/Latin-America-Monitor/2011/1021/New-optimism-in-Cuba-about-economic-reforms-Freedom-House-study-reveals

[ChangoLoa]

1. "If they taste it, they'll want more" theory, eh...

Doesn't work for the bloqueo though

[flamingdem]

2. If prices drop I could see a ton of them traveling to Floriduh

and influencing attitudes there. The White Card that is needed to travel out of Cuba is apparently going away.

[ChangoLoa]

3. Really? They'd definitely gain lots in the moral dimension by eliminating the permits

One of my best friends in Venezuela is a Cuban painter. It was a complete via crucis when he tried to bring his parents for a visit some years ago.

[flamingdem]

4. The problem is often the host country, the USA denies visas all the time

especially if the Cuban is under 60, they don't want them to stay.

Raul announced some time ago they'll do away with the white card