There comes a point in most communist countries where conditions become so poor that those living there try to flee. Right around this time it’s common for the rulers of these countries to implement prohibitions against traveling abroad and Cuba has had such a restriction for a very long time. It seems that Raul Castro, unlike his brother Fidel, has at least some common sense is planning to reverse this and a handful of other problems that have been harming Cuba since communism came into power:
Cubans will be allowed to travel abroad as tourists for the first time in more than 50 years, Raul Castro’s government has announced.
Cuba is also move more towards a free market as they have found out that a planned economy is impossible:
Since taking over from brother Fidel Castro in 2008, Raul Castro has championed a limited but significant shift to the free market. Last year, he announced that Cubans would be allowed to go into business for themselves in 178 approved enterprises, hire employees and rent out cars and homes.
Castro has also pledged to cut up to 500,000 state jobs and has warned his countrymen that the government can no longer afford the deep subsidies it gives workers.
No it won’t be a free-market but at least it’s a move in the right direction. Cuba will also be reducing the number of employees hired by the state which should free up labor for endeavors that can actually make money. Sure, these policies aren’t going to turn Cuba into a bastion of freedom but I think the people there will see as government interference in their lives lessens the quality of their lives will increase.
It’s not perfect, Hell it’s not even much of a change at all, but it’s a start and every journey needs to begin somewhere.