Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel held a meeting with representatives from government bodies, institutions, and associations, as well as neighborhood leaders and other stakeholders directly involved in the economic and social transformations currently underway.
During the discussion, the president reiterated the government’s premise that economic growth is meaningless unless it has a direct impact on social development, according to a report published on the Presidency’s website.
“For us, it makes no sense to generate economic wealth if it does not impact and support social programs—and, above all, if that wealth is not distributed based on the concept of social justice,” Díaz-Canel stated.
He emphasized that social justice is precisely what gives a socialist character to the 176 economic and social transformations the country is implementing.
“Social justice is what distinguishes us from the ‘shock policies’ of capitalism—the kind adopted by those who attack us, blockade us, and impose an energy embargo on us,” the head of state reflected.
The meeting highlighted the pivotal role played by the people and their grassroots organizations in implementing these changes within communities, as well as the social responsibility that must be assumed by both state and non-state economic actors.
The President of the Republic stressed that these transformations have followed a consultative process that began with the membership of the Communist Party and the Young Communist League, and extends to workplaces and communities, where neighborhood organizations play a fundamental role.
Regarding the importance of oversight and popular participation, Díaz-Canel underscored that institutions linked to the social sector must ensure that economic liberalization does not exacerbate inequalities and that structural changes benefit the most vulnerable sectors. The leader—who also serves as First Secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba—insisted that all stakeholders must understand their roles and contributions in upholding social justice.
“No institution should limit itself to its specific function; it is necessary to integrate into a coordinated network with others to truly achieve social justice,” he emphasized.
In the leader’s view, the key lies in interdisciplinary coordination at all levels — from the national down to the community — and he stressed that “the aspiration for social justice cannot remain merely a matter of rhetoric.”
He also outlined a set of concepts to guide day-to-day work in neighborhoods and urged that efforts be focused on those with the greatest needs through tailored support.
Regarding economic actors — both state-run and private — he clarified that they cannot be viewed solely as financial entities, but also as social actors.
Díaz-Canel noted that another essential principle of the process is that “social protection must be accessible and free of bureaucracy,” while warning against promising what cannot be delivered due to a lack of resources.
Finally, he affirmed that these forums for dialogue are encouraging and demonstrate that, even while enduring the effects of the long-standing blockade and the energy restrictions imposed by the United States, the country is continuously working to build a better society.
[ SOURCE: PRENSA LATINA ]
