Which region does the cube belong to? Cuba: population, economy and general information
As one of the last strongholds of communism on the planet, the country is of constant interest. While the rest of the world lives at the fast pace of the digital age, Cuba is slowly moving its own way, with only a minority having access to the Internet. Dinosaurs of the automotive world, repaired and tinted American cars of the 1940s and 1950s, crawl awkwardly along the dimly lit city streets. In rural areas, cars are replaced by ox-carts, omnibuses, Chinese bicycles and pedicabs. The dwellings are furnished with furniture antiques inherited from their ancestors, illuminated with energy-saving light bulbs.
Cuba is inseparable from international politics of the second half of the 20th century. At the age of six, children become young pioneers - builders of communism. Across the country, giant posters carry incantations from the country's leadership like "Socialismo about Muerte" ("Socialism or death") and "Viva la Revolution" ("Long live the revolution"). Portraits of Che Guevara, the revolutionary martyr of the 1960s, can be found everywhere on the walls of shops, institutions and residential buildings.
Under the conditions of tough communist rule, the country has always burst at the seams. Its economic condition is directly dependent on the global environment, and the situation is further exacerbated by the American trade embargo and the damage caused by hurricanes. Many families continue to live in cramped conditions in dilapidated housing, the monthly income of many Cubans in terms of less than 25 US dollars.
The obvious weakness of the Cuban economy and the deprivation of the Cuban people cannot be overlooked. In addition, the island lacks real freedom of speech, press and movement outside the country, although under Raul Castro, some indulgences have taken place. However, there is no such glaring poverty that catches the eye, say, in Bangladesh, India, Latin America. Housing is provided by the state, and hardly anywhere in Cuba you will see homeless people sleeping on the streets, and although Cubans do not get all the necessary food according to coupon books, nobody really goes hungry. All residents of the country have the right to free health care and education. Life expectancy increased from 57 years in 1958 to 77.7 years in 2011. This is the 57th indicator in the world. The infant mortality rate in Cuba is lower than in the United States and the European Union.
Decay, poverty and limitation only underline the unyielding spirit of the Cuban people. These people are characterized by remarkable resilience, patience and love of life, which, it seems, cannot be undermined by any economic hardships. Cubans are extremely friendly and hospitable and always eagerly invite visitors to the island in their modest homes. Overflowing with energy schoolchildren - all in the same uniform - are everywhere: scampering through the streets, playing backyard baseball - stickball, riding homemade skateboards, flying kites.
Cuba today
Modern Cuba is slowly but surely beginning to make concessions to certain capitalist goods, which seemed completely unthinkable under Fidel. Moreover, here they are no longer so aggressively disposed towards their eternal enemy - the United States. Several years ago, in order to somehow strengthen the shaky state economy, Cuba tried to develop tourism, which seriously changed its appearance.
The number of those wishing to visit the poor but proud island of socialism is only growing every year, which, of course, affects the state transformations. Gradually, the country acquires the notorious "elements of the sweet life", contrasting with the picturesque ruins that have survived since the revolution. For example, the ban on the import of foreign cars into the country was recently lifted, thanks to which quite modern taxis can now be seen at the Havana airport. The coast of Cuba has been actively built up in recent years with fashionable hotel complexes and spa hotels. And although the level of service in most of these establishments still gives off a "Soviet flavor", the rest here can be called quite civilized and comfortable.
Paradise Island
For many arriving on the island for the first time, Cuba is striking in its dissimilarity from the rest of the Caribbean. The best Cuban poet, Nicholas Guillen, compared the island to a "long green alligator." What is long is for sure - the distance from the "nose" to the "tail" is 1250 km. Cuba, comparable in area to England, is divided into 14 provinces and has about 450 islands and islets called "kayos", which means "reefs" and "springs".
Given the size, it will take at least a month to get to know the entire country. Most begin their acquaintance with the capital, Havana, and then travel to the famous tobacco plantations to the west, after which they visit the sugarcane valleys and the most beautiful colonial cities in the central part of the island. The easternmost region, called Oriente, is known for its high mountains and the second largest and first musical city.
Many resort hotels have sprung up along the truly Caribbean beaches, mainly on the northern coast. While many organized tourists still flock to the sea, each region of the island has its own charming cities, prompting people to venture inland.
Cuba's white-sand beaches are delightful, with the long stretches of Varadero coastline to the north being best known. Other beach tourism centers include Guardalavaca, Playa Esmeralda and the islands of Coco and Largo. Sailing enthusiasts pay tribute to the countless natural harbors, anglers hunt marlin off the coast, and divers explore coral reefs and wrecks.
Most tourists prefer a full-service vacation, but Cuba's variety of attractions also attracts a large number of independent travelers who find a lot of interesting things for themselves, in addition to the sea and beaches. At the eastern end of the island rises its highest mountain range, the Sierra Maestro (up to 1974 m), the birthplace of many uprisings; in the west, in the province of Pinar del Rio, lies the green Viña forest valley with huge mogotes, made of limestone by steep hills up to 400 m high; in the central part of the island are the lush Sierra del Escambray mountains and the old sugar cane plantations of the De los Ingenios Valley.
But there are still big and small cities. Havana combines fine Spanish colonial architecture with a vibrant street life and a range of cultural events and attractions; Trinidad - a shining gem of the colonial era - attracts with beautiful residences, churches and other structures on the winding cobbled streets; - a colorful cocktail that has absorbed elements of Spanish, French and African cultures.
Climate
Cuba belongs to the tropical trade wind zone. As for the seasons, in this part of the Caribbean, only two weather seasons can be distinguished: dry (from October to April) and rainy, accompanied by rather strong hurricanes (from May to September).
Cold is a concept that no Cuban is familiar with. Even in January, the temperature on the island rarely drops below +22 ° C. The apotheosis of the heat occurs in August, when the thermometer freezes at around +28 ° C in the shade. An additional bonus to ocean winds and tropical stuffiness is high air humidity, which often darkens the first days of the trip. But you shouldn't worry about a specific occasion: it usually takes no more than a couple of days to get used to local climatic realities.
Main tourist destinations
What Cuba really disposes of is a lazy beach vacation: in fact, the entire coastline of the main island is a continuous beach from the Bounty advertisements with snow-white starch of sand and azure shallow waters. If your plans are not only regal reclining on a sun lounger and getting a chocolate tan, try to stay longer in the main city of Cuba - Havana. Firstly, you still will not deprive yourself of a pleasant beach relaxation, because the city has grabbed itself a 20-kilometer piece of the sea coast, equipping it in accordance with the tastes of tourists. And secondly, you can fully enjoy the old architecture for which the Cuban capital is famous.
It is worth stopping by to plunge into the typical Caribbean flavor, gain impressions from exploring the historical part of the city (after all, it was from here that the Spanish colonization of the island began) and dance to the incendiary melodies of street musicians. The cradle of the Cuban revolution, Santa Clara, is mainly visited by those who never cease to be agitated by the romanticized image of the ex-commander Che Guevara. For your information, the remains of the Argentine rebel still rest in the local mausoleum. The cigar capital of Cuba, Pinar del Rio, is ready to offer its guests not only excursions to tobacco plantations, but also walks through the picturesque valleys surrounding the city. You can rewind time and return to the colonial era in Trinidad. Some of the local mansions built by the "sugar kings" are even included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Of all the islands of the Cuban archipelago, Cayo Largo, Cayo Caco and Cayo Guillermo are recognized as the most tourist oriented. The first piece of land is notable for its coral reef and iguanas roaming freely along the coast. There is practically no local population in Cayo Largo, but hotels and bars with visiting staff, as well as clean municipal beaches are in abundance. To escape the blues and relieve stress is best on Cayo Coco. The main feature of the island is a cave disco organized for tourists on Tuesdays. From Cayo Coco, you can climb along a sandy dam to the neighboring island - Cayo Guillermo, whose main attraction is the pink flamingos living here. It's a paradox, but Cubans themselves are not allowed here, unless they work in one of the island hotels, so only overseas guests can enjoy the fantastic sunsets and all the benefits of the all inclusive system in Cayo Guillermo.
Attractions and entertainment in Cuba
The main historical sights of Cuba are concentrated in Havana and several other large cities. In the capital, first of all, it is worth paying attention to the Old Havana area with its Cathedral of Saint Christopher, Prado Boulevard and Colon Cemetery, dotted with pretentious marble monuments. Contemplation of the Havana Capitol (a recognizable copy of the Washington one) will also give a pleasant experience. It is also interesting to wander around the old town squares, bordered by old colonial-style mansions. Plaza de Armas, Plaza Vieja, Plaza de la Catedral, Plaza de San Francisco - all these cobbled spots are included in the mandatory minimum tourist program.
The tiny town of Remedios is worth visiting for the Carnival Museum, the Alejandro García Couturla Music Museum and the Church of John the Baptist. People go to Pinar del Rio to see the Guash Palace, go to a performance at the Milanes Theater and watch the production of real Cuban cigars at the Francisco Donatien tobacco factory. In Matanzas, must-see areas are Vihia Square, San Severino Castle and Montserrat Chapel.
Cuba is not Cuba without mentioning the old Hemingway. Here the writer is loved, honored, without missing out on the opportunity to earn a little on his fame. If you, too, are not indifferent to the work of antiquity Ham, take a look at the Finca Vihia estate in the vicinity of San Francisco de Paula (Havana district), to which the genius gave 20 years of his life.
For ecotourists in a country with 14 national parks and more than two dozen biosphere reserves, the possibilities are almost endless. The most famous and most visited protected natural areas are the parks of Bacanao, Desembarco del Granma, Sierra del Rosario and Topes de Collantes.
It is difficult to ignore the Cuban resorts, the most important of which is Holguín. Resting here, though expensive, is fun and prestigious. In addition, the resort has the most beautiful beach in the country - Playa Esmeralda. Cheaper and less pretentious, Varadero has made a reputation for its vibrant nightlife. The regulars of this piece of paradise are party fans, sex tourists and just lovers of all-inclusive vacations. Well, travelers who do not belong to any of the listed categories can be advised to look into Varadero for an excursion to Jose Smith's sugar factory, where the production of the rum legend - Havana Club - was first launched.
All sights of Cuba
Divers in Cuba live at ease without exaggeration. If you wish, you can go in search of underwater adventures directly from the beaches of Havana, Varadero and Santiago de Cuba. The transparency of the sea water is high almost everywhere, and the bottom is replete with coral thickets and interesting finds. But it is better, of course, to choose less crowded places, tested by experts. These include the islands of Cayo Coco, Cayo Largo, Juventud and Jardines del Rey. You can also chase exotic fish near the coral reef in the province of Cienfuegos.
There is no shortage of experienced instructors on Liberty Island, but most of them speak only Spanish and a little less often English. Russian-speaking diving gurus can be found only in Varadero and in Jardines del Rey. It is also possible to take training in primary diving skills in Cuba, but it is unlikely that you will be able to acquire a certificate of a more advanced level (PADI).
It is not necessary to bring diving equipment with you. Almost all Cuban diving centers have their own material and technical base: sometimes thoroughly shabby, but quite working. On average, dive rates range from 30 (daylight) to 40 (night) CUC.
Holidays to celebrate with Cubans
On Liberty Island, communist holidays are still in trend. May Day and Cuban Revolution Day (January 2) are still celebrated here with great pomp. On July 26, a wave of parades and demonstrations in honor of National Uprising Day swept across the country. On October 10, all Cuban patriots do not go to work, but gather at the Carlos Manuel Cespedes monument to lay flowers and express their deep gratitude to the “Father of the Motherland”.
Despite the fact that the overwhelming majority of the local inhabitants are zealous Catholics, Christmas in Cuba is celebrated quietly, modestly and without traditional gifts. But on New Year's Eve, an unimaginable festive chaos reigns in large cities, accompanied by intoxicating parties and concerts.
Features of the national mentality
The indigenous population of Cuba lives mostly poor, but carefree and fun. All these tales about dancing in the middle of the street, the amazing talkativeness of local, prehistoric Cadillacs and Buicks, carefully inherited, as well as generously scattered compliments towards white-skinned Europeans have a very real basis. The average Cuban behaves like a typical careless dreamer who dreams of one day getting rich all his life, but at the same time will not agree to leave his usual comfort zone for any treasures. But such a way of life also has its own sacred meaning: to strain in a country where universal leveling operates and revolutions break out from time to time is dear to itself. Although to scold the Cubans in front of their regime is a kind of bad manners. Despite the fact that local residents have a meager salary, receive food on coupons and pay exorbitant prices for white sugar, which they themselves produce, outwardly they look quite happy with this existence.
As for the attitude towards tourists, then, of course, for most Cubans they are just fat wallets, from which, if possible, you need to shake out the maximum. On Liberty Island, if not all, then very many are engaged in divorce for money: from the state, which put into circulation a special tourist currency, to petty fraudsters who deliberately provoke an accident in order to disrupt material compensation from a naive traveler. Recently, such an unprecedented phenomenon as the financial stratification of society has begun to be observed in the country: Cubans who are involved in the tourism sector and have the opportunity to receive tips in addition to their main income have turned into a real elite.
Religion
Catholicism in Cuba is closely intertwined with Afro-Cuban religions, in particular with such as Santeria. Tourists have the opportunity to experience many aspects of these religious practices. In the early 1960s, the government stripped the Catholic Church of much of its power and influence, but Mass continues to be held in churches throughout the island, and since the Pope’s visit to Cuba in 1998, Catholic services and rituals have become more widespread.
Language
The entire population of Cuba speaks Spanish. Recently, in connection with the development of the tourism industry among the islanders, all kinds of courses for studying foreign languages, mainly European, have begun to gain popularity. In particular, the overwhelming majority of the staff of elite hotels and taxi drivers speak English well. But since the mass mastery of Shakespeare's language is still far from here, it is better to get a paper or electronic Russian-Spanish phrasebook before the trip.
Food in Cuba
Spanish, Creole and African motives are closely intertwined in Cuban cuisine. The favorite side dish here is rice, which is often mixed with black beans or beans. It is most often served with pork or chicken, since beef in Cuba is a pleasure available only to a select few. It is worth trying the Creole ajiaco, which is a meat stew with vegetables and spices. By the way, it is better to look for the most peppery and spicy dishes in the vicinity of Santiago de Cuba.
In some establishments you can also taste exotic meat (crocodiles, turtles). Quite popular types of dishes include juevos habaneros (a local type of omelet with a spicy sauce), chicharrones (crispy pork skin chips), pulp meatloaf and unchanging lobsters that are inaccessible to the common Cuban, but are in great demand among the tourist fraternity. For dessert, it is worth taking maduros (fried bananas), caramel cream dulce de leche (analogue of domestic boiled condensed milk) and churros cookies, which are fried right on the street. In addition, there is an abundance of fruits in Cuba, so they can be found not only in the form of desserts, but also as a side dish for meat dishes.
As for drinks, it is worth appreciating Cuban rum and, of course, the legendary daiquiri - the favorite cocktail of John F. Kennedy and Papa Ham. Tourists drink guarapo cane juice more out of curiosity than for pleasure. But the local beer enjoys a good reputation. The strongest coffee is brewed in Cuba, generously flavored with sugar, and sometimes splashing a couple of drops of rum into a cup.
In most hotels, where breakfast or three meals a day is provided, the cuisine is more Europeanized. Usually the morning starts with a buffet with all that it implies. If you are looking for a typical Cuban tavern, welcome to the public dining rooms in private houses (paladares), which have recently been actively replaced by classic restaurants.
Money
In theory, the country's currency is the Cuban peso. In fact, there are two types of money in circulation: for the indigenous population, this is the same Cuban peso (CUP), and for tourists - a convertible peso or cook (CUC). 1 cookie is 57.43 rubles, exactly 1 US dollar or 1.18 euros (for 2017).
It is most profitable to exchange euros (no commission) or Canadian dollars at local banks. The worst thing to do is to convert the American currency, since the commission for its exchange can go up to 20% of the amount. Money can be exchanged at the airport, hotels and banks. The latter are open Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm, with establishments closing for a traditional siesta from 12:00 pm to 1:30 pm.
Credit cards are accepted in the resort areas of the island. Not so long ago, the ban on "plastic" of American banks was lifted in Cuba, but disruptions in payment transactions with Mastercard still occur. Protection from such awkward situations will be a stock of cash, which will be gladly accepted in any institution.
Tipping is customary on Liberty Island. In restaurants, this can be the traditional 10% of the bill. There will be enough little things in the bars (in cookies). Porters, maids and street musicians are given no more than 1 cookie.
Note: before leaving, try to empty all the cookies in the shops, or have time to exchange them at the Havana airport. Otherwise, you run the risk of returning home with a pile of useless bills - convertible pesos do not change anywhere else.
Trip budget
Compared to the rest of Latin America and other developing countries, Cuba can be an unpleasant surprise for its high cost, but staying on the island will cost you no more than a vacation on other islands in the Caribbean.
Road
Air tickets can become the main expense item, especially for residents of Europe and Asia. It is cheaper to travel in the off-season, from mid-December to mid-April, and pay for the full service.
Accommodation
Car rent
You can rent a car in Cuba in any major city, but keep in mind that gasoline is expensive here: about 1.20-1.40 CUC / l. To rent a car, you must be 21 years old and have at least one year of driving experience. To conclude a lease, a passport and an international driver's license will be enough.
The rental price is from 45 to 150 cookies per day without mileage limitation. Usually the tourist pays the rent, as well as a mandatory deposit of 150-300 CUC (cash is available). The insurance will need to be bought on the spot, even if you paid for the rental in advance before arriving in the country. If you take the car in one place and want to return it in another, you will have to pay the cost of the return journey. In the event of damage to the vehicle, you must pay the first few hundred dollars required for repairs unless you can prove that the damage was not your fault. Before picking up the vehicle, inspect it for dents and scratches.
Useful information: even sitting behind the wheel of a rented car, you will hardly be able to disguise yourself as a real amigo on Cuban roads. Cars in the country are identified by the color of their license plates: yellow ones belong to private owners, blue ones belong to government agencies, and red ones are given to tourists.
Cuba is a large island in the Caribbean and the island state of the same name. Cuba is famous all over the world for the most beautiful beaches of the northern coast, magnificent ancient cities, incomparable and incendiary Latin American music and, finally, hand-rolled cigars. This contrast makes the country unique and interesting for tourists to visit.
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Where is Cuba on the world map
The official name of the state is the Republic of Cuba, the unofficial name is the Island of Liberty. The capital of Cuba is Havana. In the western part of the hemisphere, it is the only state with a socialist form of government.
Cuba is located on the island of Juventud (the seventh largest in the world) between North and South America... All islands and coral reefs that are located on the map around Cuba belong to the country. There are about 1500 of them. All of them belong to the group of the Greater Antilles.
On the map, the country is shown as a narrow strip of land that stretches from west to east and its length is 1250 km. Outwardly, the island looks like a crocodile, whose head looks at the Atlantic, and its tail rushes to the Gulf of Mexico.
Cuba is an island, so it is washed from all sides:
- The Atlantic Ocean in the northeast;
- The Gulf of Mexico in the northwest;
- The Caribbean Sea in the south.
The total area of the state is 114,524 square kilometers. Sierra Maestro mountains are located in the southeastern part of the state map and are the highest point of the state (Turkino peak - 1973 meters).
Distance from Cuba to Moscow - 9580 km, to - 215 km, to Jamaica - 150 km, to the USA - 185 km, to Haiti - 78 km.
All about Cuba
Cuba is an island state, therefore, the peculiarities of nature and weather largely depend on the ocean and sea that wash the country.
Relief
Cuba's landscape is mostly flat. Mountains and small hills occupy about a third of the entire island's territory. There are three main mountain systems in the state:
- in the west - the Cordillera de Guaniguanico;
- in the center - Escambray;
- in the east - the Sierra Maestro.
Cuba is very many small and large caves... The largest cave is Santo Tomas, it contains many so-called underground galleries, 25 km long. And also there are hills with steep slopes and flat tops. Areas that are a little hilly have been mastered and populated. The shores are often swampy, low, even in some places overgrown with mangrove thickets. Sandy beaches are not uncommon in Cuba and tend to stretch for several kilometers. For example, in the most famous resort of Varadero (Icakos Peninsula), there is such a sandy beach.
Climate
In Cuba, great: warm and soft, due to the geographic location of the country. The US state of Florida is separated from Cuba by a small Florida strait... Its width is only 150 km. Warm water currents pass through this strait, which are referred to as the Gulf Stream.
Thanks to such warm currents, the water temperature on the beaches in winter does not drop below 22 degrees, in summer - 28-30 degrees. In general, the climate in the country is trade wind-tropical and indicates that there is a clear division into dry and rainy seasons... The rainy season in Cuba lasts from May to October, and dry and sunny weather, respectively, November-April.
By sea, Cuba is separated from the Yucatan Peninsula (Mexico) a short distance. But also around the Republic of Cuba there are such magnificent corners as Jamaica, the Bahamas, etc. Cuba is separated from these states by insignificant straits 80 to 170 km wide.
Population
The population of the country is 11.5 million people. Most of the population - descendants of immigrants from Spain, the rest are mestizos, mulattoes, blacks, but also a large number of Chinese live on the island. The indigenous people were completely exterminated during the development and colonization of the island by the Spaniards.
The Spaniards needed more manpower, so slaves were brought into the island from Africa. More than 1 million slaves have been imported in 350 years. For the same reason, the Chinese (120,000 people) were also brought from Asia in the period from 1854 to 1875. Indian slaves were also brought to work on the plantations, but their number is small. A constant flow of migrants was represented by European states (France, England, Germany, Spain).
Highly big wave of migration began during and after World War II. The main settlers of that time were Jews. Thus, the Cuban nation has absorbed the characteristics of many of the peoples of the world.
Most of the believers are:
- 47% are Catholics;
- 4% are Protestants.
The rest are the so-called santeria. This belief based on the cult of African pagans, which mixes with the Christian cult. The church does not obey the state, the constitution states that every citizen has the right to freedom of religion.
What language is spoken in Cuba? Of course, the official language is Spanish. However, the staff in many hotels speaks fluent German, English, Italian.
State structure
According to the 1992 Constitution of Cuba is a socialist republic, in which the main place is occupied by the Communist Party. The first party secretary is the president of the country.
Parliament consists of 609 deputies, elected for a term of 5 years. The executive branch is the Council of Ministers and the Council of State.
The country is divided into 15 provinces, which in turn are divided into municipalities (168) and a separate municipality of Juventud.
A brief excursion into history
Island discovered by Columbus in 1492, then it was inhabited by the Indians. The island was captured in the 16th century by the Spaniards, who exterminated most of the indigenous population and brought slaves to the island from different continents. Slavery on the island persisted until 1887.
As a result of a difficult and long confrontation (1868-1878) of the Cuban people against the colonial yoke, the independence of the island of Cuba was proclaimed. But in fact, the country was under the yoke of the United States. The withdrawal of American troops took place in 1901, but even after that, the American government more than once resorted to an armed seizure of power in Cuba. In 1934 dictator Batista approved a pro-American regime in the country.
Under the command of Fidel Castro in 1959 the dictator was overthrown... The USSR provided special economic assistance in the formation of statehood. During this period, the United States imposed an embargo. During the Cold War (Caribbean Crisis), the Soviet Union deployed nuclear warheads in Cuba. In 1975, Cuba was proclaimed an independent socialist state, and Castro took over the leadership of the country. And he still pursues a policy of blockading Cuba, thereby causing economic damage to the island.
A long period of Spanish colonization, attempts to take possession of the island by the British and Americans could not turn Cuba into an overseas country. Therefore, the Cubans proudly mark the island on the map and call it the Island of Liberty.
Freedom Island Cuba is a legendary country, about which, with all its flavor, we do not know so much. Meanwhile, this island is rich in its history, culture and incredible life experiences. Time stopped in Cuba about three decades ago. And you still have the opportunity to see the world of the past.
What is Cuba on the map
In the north of the Caribbean Sea there is a very interesting, original and uniquely memorable country, the Republic of Cuba. It covers not only the central island, but also several smaller ones. Divided into 16 provinces, it also includes the municipality of the islands of Juventud. No matter how large the area of Cuba may seem, its population is about 11.3 million people.
The state is a member of the United Nations Organization and the World Trade Organization. The dominant Communist Party is in charge of politics. The flag of Cuba is painted in white-blue-red colors. Three blue stripes symbolize the Spanish parts of Cuba, two white stripes - independence, a red triangle - equality, and a star - freedom.
Cuba covers a total area of 110,860 square kilometers and a length of 1,250 kilometers. The state borders on the United States, Mexico, Jamaica and the island of Haiti. The climate here is tropical, with temperatures ranging from 22 to 30 degrees Celsius.
Where the name of the Island of Freedom came from is not fully known. It is assumed that the word "Cuba" came from the Taino Indians, who called the island "a beautiful place". And some historians say that the island of Cuba was named Columbus in honor of the village of the same name in Portugal.
History of Cuba
Cuba has passed a difficult path during its formation. These lands have seen a lot of revolutionary action. The first civil uprising took place back in 1823, when the locals decided to fight for an independent Spain. From 1868 to 1878, battles were fought here during the Ten Years War for the Independence of the Cuban People. This was followed by a number of revolutionary leaders who introduced their own rules and principles of government to Cuba.
The well-known Fidel Castro came here in 1953. It was with his activities that the Cuban Revolution began, which opposed the ruling dictator Batista. When he fled the island, the "left" revolutionaries took over the leading position. But the optimistic trend did not last long, as repressions soon began in Cuba. Castro feared dangerous US influence and began to actively cooperate with the Soviet Union.
It was this, the largest state at that time, that supported Cuba materially and financially. But when Perestroika began in the Union, relations changed. And Cuba itself has lost its former power. Money was scarce, jobs were scarce. Stability was achieved only by 1994.
The Church in Cuba acts by its own rules, because everyone here has the right to their own religion. Mostly they profess Catholicism. But sometimes there are examples of Protestantism and African worship, which are built on the sacrifice and worship of various pagan gods.
They say that here it is mainly in Spanish, but you can hear both English and Italian. In some regions, Dutch, German and various local dialects are spoken.
Cuba and its cities
The capital of Cuba, the city of Havana, is a tourist center and one of the largest in the country. Its total area is almost 727 square kilometers, on which there are 15 municipalities. Havana received the status of the capital in 1902, and at the moment it is the cultural, economic and political center of the country.
There are many museums built in the city, in particular the Colonial, the National, the Jose Marti House Museum and the Museum of the Revolution. Also here you can see many old restored houses of the XVI-XVIII centuries. The house-museum of the great writer Ernesto Hemingway, who was impossibly in love with Cuba, was also opened.
The second largest and most important city in Cuba is Santiago de Cuba. It was built and inhabited at the beginning of the 16th century, and until 1556 it served as the capital of the state. Here, as in the capital, a lot of museums were opened: ethnographic, municipal, natural history and others.
Tourists come to the south of Cuba to try their hand at recreational diving and see the fortress of San Pedro de la Roca del Morro. By the way, it is in this city that the grave of the dictator Fidel Castro is located.
The city of Camaguey was built in the center of Cuba in 1514. The locals have suffered from pirate attacks for several decades, but over time, the area has changed. Surrounded by picturesque nature, the city is famous for its many attractions - the Ignacio Argamonte Museum, the Trabahadores and Soledad squares, and, of course, the Casino Campestre park.
How to organize an unforgettable vacation in Cuba
Despite the fact that Cuba is not the richest country, tourists will definitely have something to see here.
In the capital rises the bell-shaped Cathedral of St. Christoph, the building is included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built from 1767 to the end of the 19th century; the frescoes by Giuseppe Perovani became the crown of the architectural creation. The bells are made of bronze with an admixture of silver and gold.
Be sure to take a stroll along Prado Boulevard in the capital, a promenade that separates the two regions of Havana. Noisy and colorful Cuban weddings take place here, as there is the Wedding Palace on the boulevard. A large hotel "Sevilla" was built for tourists, and the old Capitol tower rises nearby. Walking along the boulevard in the evening, you will certainly see the Bolshoi Theater and Central Park. Walk a little more and you are on the Malecon embankment.
Picturesque and one of the largest parks, the Sierra del Rosario, can be seen if you get to the Rosario ridge. The large park is a protected area with a length of 250 kilometers. This land is home to a rainforest with over 800 plant species. At the moment, the park is of particular natural value for UNESCO.
And, of course, you cannot come to Cuba and not look into Hemingway's house. It was here that the writer lived almost until the end of his life. He was inspired by the unique seascape and fresh brackish air. Hemingway arrived in Cuba in 1940, but the house in which he settled was built at the end of the 19th century. Luxurious views, rum and national flavor inspired the author to write the legendary novel "The Old Man and the Sea".
In 1961, the writer passed away, and a year later, in tribute to his work, the Cuban authorities made a museum in his house. Everything here is preserved in the form that Ernest is used to seeing. Even in the bedroom, on the desktop, they installed an exact copy of the typewriter on which the brilliant works were created.
Cuba is something unique
Such a different country is definitely not found anywhere in the world. And there are plenty of quirks on the Island of Freedom. Accustomed to prohibitions, repression and restrictions, Cubans have some other permissions. Surprisingly, the activities of Masonic lodges are still legal here. To this day, there is an organization of masons, including a little less than 300,000 local residents.
But there are much more bans. For example, one of the strangest rules is the prohibition on catching and eating lobsters by locals. This product is considered exclusively for tourism and is grown or harvested by state monopolies. Local residents are not eligible for this product. We are talking not only about lobsters, but also about lobsters. To tell the truth, this rule is of course violated. But it still remains within the law and implies a prison sentence of several years.
Photography in Cuba is a separate art form. But before you take the cherished picture, make sure it's legal. It is strictly forbidden to photograph administrative and military buildings, cars or any other place. There are a lot of KGB officers in all cities, but it's better not to risk taking photos or videos with them. If you are photographing locals or taking selfies with them, then first of all, ask permission. You will hardly hear a refusal, but if this happens, it is better to immediately erase the photo.
And the most popular entertainment in Havana is the Tropicana show. It features traditional cabaret with colorful Cuban costumes. The ticket price is 95 Cuban pesos, which includes a pass to the event, a glass of champagne, a can of Coca-Cola and a bottle of rum. Cabaret talks about the rich history of Cuba from the days of the Indians to the dictators of Castro.
Cuba and tourism
What does a tourist do when he gets tired of sightseeing or when a little less than a couple of hours are left before the plane? Of course he goes shopping!
The Caribbean coastline is rich in ocean sights and beauty. In local souvenir shops, you can buy bracelets and turtle shell figurines. It will be interesting for musicians to bring a bongo, for fashionistas - a Guayabera shirt. Well, and where without the traditional portraits of Che Guevara, who look at tourists from T-shirts, cups, key rings and other things.
You are unlikely to have to buy groceries, but you will not be able to do it especially. In Cuba, everything is issued with coupons, and there are supermarkets for tourists. To tell the truth, there are only two large shopping centers in Cuba, and then in the capital.
What to try in Cuba?
Of course, drink a glass of rum and, if tastes permit, light a fragrant cigar and feel like Al Capone. Buying Rum in any city in Cuba is easier than finding a shop without a queue. Rum prices are minimal, but the quality matches the price. If you want to try a good cigar, then check out the Cigar Museum. This will help you learn more about this iconic item and buy a quality product for a relatively low price.
When it comes to restaurants, this is not the case. There are no large five-star restaurants with arches and butterfly waiters in Cuba. And even small cafes with three tables with a thatched roof are called a restaurant. But the food in all establishments is quite tasty. Seafood is widespread. The same lobsters and lobsters, which are relatively inexpensive here.
All about Cuba for tourists
To visit Cuba you will need. The Embassy of the Island of Liberty receives Ukrainian tourists warmly enough, so the documents will be processed quickly. With such a visa, you can stay in the country for up to 30 days, and if the atmosphere of the island drags on for some more time, then the documents at the Ukrainian embassy will easily be extended.
Will cost you about $ 500-700. to Cuba ranges from 25 to 50 thousand hryvnia. A hotel in a tourist town will cost about UAH 1,500-2,600 per day. In smaller cities, hotels cost about
1000 - 1500 hryvnia per day. You can give yourself a truly heavenly pleasure and rent a house, villa or cottage on the coast. This luxury will cost 800 - 2200 hryvnia per day.
There is one fact worth knowing about currency. There are two types of pesos in Cuba. The first one is designated as CUP, this currency is less colorfully printed and is intended for local residents. For tourists, the peso is designated, which is designated as CUC. This is the so-called convertible peso, which is 1:25 to the usual peso, respectively. Interestingly, any city in Cuba accepts both currencies. And the quirk still exists.
Video - 13 interesting facts about Cuba
As for money, it is also important to know that there are no terminals in the local stores. So you should always have cash with you. It is better to withdraw a large amount immediately from ATMs, because the commissions there are literally extortionate. Part of the amount should be kept close to you, and part should be left in the safe of the hotel or villa. Anyway, all valuable things should be kept with you. Theft rate is quite high in Cuba.
When taking photos, do not forget that posting pictures on Instagram will not be so easy. There is no Internet on a large scale in Cuba. You can only use it with a card in certain places. Or in the central districts of the city at the main post office. Or in a hotel, of course.
In Cuba, it is a separate world that cannot be compared with anything. Temperamental, emotional and to this day not discouraged Cubans will gladly share their experience with you from old memory. Ukrainians are usual guests in Cuba. Once upon a time, a tour to Cuba was organized for the children of Chernobyl. Now everything is getting better, but Cuba is still waiting for our fellow countrymen. The only thing to do is to find out where Cuba is, order a visa, book a hotel and fly to a meeting for a sunny vacation.
State in the West Indies.
Territory - 110.86 thousand sq. km. The capital is the city of Havana.
Population - 11.16 million people. (1999).
The official language is Spanish.
Religion - Catholicism.
The island of Cuba was discovered by Columbus in 1492 and colonized by the Spaniards in 1511. The indigenous Indian population was completely exterminated. After two wars of liberation (1868-1878 and 1895-1898), Cuba achieved independence from Spain. In 1956, a partisan war, led by F. Castro, began on the island against the dictatorial regime of Batista, which ended with the fall of the latter on January 1, 1959. In April 1961, F. Castro announced the socialist character of the Cuban revolution.
State structure
Cuba is a unitary state. Administrative divisions - 14 provinces, which are divided into 169 municipalities.
The Constitution is in force, approved by a popular referendum on February 15, 1976 and entered into force on February 24, 1976. According to the form of government, Cuba is a socialist republic with a one-party system. In July 1992, the National Assembly amended the Constitution, updating about 2/3 of its articles. The new edition of the Basic Law, confirming the goal of building a socialist society, as the ideological and political basis of the state and society, brings to the fore the ideals of national liberation, the principles of independence, sovereignty and identity. At the same time, the ruling Communist Party of Cuba maintains full control over society. Political and ideological pluralism is not allowed, some restrictions on freedom of speech, press, assembly, civil rights remain.
The highest body of state power is the National Assembly of People's Power (elected by direct universal suffrage for 5 years), endowed with legislative powers. From among its deputies, it elects the Council of State, which represents the Assembly between sessions, and also appoints the members of the Council of Ministers of the highest executive and administrative body.
The Council of State consists of a chairman, a first deputy, 5 vice-presidents, a secretary and 23 members. The Council of State is the permanent body of the National Assembly of People's Power, representing it between sessions and implementing its decisions. The Council of State is accountable to the National Assembly of People's Power. The term of office of the Council of State expires at the conclusion of the elections for the new Assembly. The Chairman of the State Council is the head of state and government, and is headed by the National Defense Council.
The Council of State has the right to convene extraordinary sessions of the National Assembly of People's Power; to pass decrees-laws in the period between sessions of the National Assembly; carry out a general and binding interpretation of applicable laws; to carry out legislative initiative; replace, on the proposal of the chairman, members of the Council of Ministers between sessions of the National Assembly; issue general instructions to courts through the Presidium of the Supreme People's Court; appoint and remove, upon the proposal of the chairman, diplomatic representatives of Cuba in other states; to award and confer honorary titles; exercise the right to pardon; ratify and denounce international treaties; suspend orders of the Council of Ministers, decisions and orders of local assemblies of people's power that are not in accordance with the Constitution or laws.
The powers of the President of the Council of State and the head of government are as follows: to represent the state and government and to guide their general policy; organize and direct the activities, convene and preside over meetings of the Council of State and the Council of Ministers; control and manage the activities of ministries and other central government bodies; assume leadership of any ministry or other central government body; propose members of the Council of Ministers for approval by the National Assembly; accept the resignation, propose to the National Assembly or the Council of State the replacement of any member of the Council of Ministers; exercise the supreme command of the Revolutionary Armed Forces; sign decrees-laws and other acts of the Council of State and give orders for their official publication.
The highest executive body of power is the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Cuba (government), whose members are submitted to the National Assembly for approval by the President of the Council of State. The Council of Ministers is responsible and periodically reports on its activities to the National Assembly; he has the right to adopt decrees and orders on the basis of and in pursuance of existing laws and to monitor their implementation.
Legal system
general characteristics
Cuba's legal system is part of the socialist legal family, maintaining a strong tradition of Spanish heritage and certain features of Anglo-American law.
Before gaining independence, Cuba was a colony of Spain for almost four centuries and had predominantly Spanish law. During this period, a fairly complete legal system developed in Cuba, which survived with minor changes until the revolution of 1959. Royal decrees in Cuba introduced (with minor changes) Spanish codes. The Spanish Civil Code of 1888 was approved in this colony in 1889, the Civil Code of Spain in 1881 - in 1885 Cuba was a country with a dualistic system of private law. Along with the Civil Code, the Spanish Commercial, or Commercial, Code of 1886 was in force there.The Code of Criminal Procedure of Spain in 1882 began to operate on the island in 1889.
The right to an independent Cuba began to take shape in the course of the liberation war. So, on July 28, 1896, the National Liberation Army introduced the Military Procedure Law of the Cuban Republic, as well as a number of military criminal laws. After the proclamation of independence, Spanish laws were not canceled and continued to operate until replaced by new acts.
During the pre-socialist period, Cuba was one of the largest centers of legal thought in Latin America. There was a relatively large class of well-trained and highly professional lawyers in the country. One of them, Sanchez de Bustamante y Sirven (1865-1951), became famous as the author of the largest regional codification of private international law, known as the Bustamante Code (1925). The 1935 Code of Social Protection (CC) of Cuba was distinguished by many innovative ideas.
A new period in the development of the Cuban legal system began after the victory of the 1959 revolution and the proclamation of a course for socialist reforms in the country (1961). The new government headed by F. Castro began to create the first socialist state in the Western Hemisphere. The revolutionary authorities did not seek an immediate and complete abolition of the old legal system. The law in force after the revolution was a complex interweaving of old and new regulations. So, they used (with numerous amendments) the Social Protection Code of 1935, the Code of Criminal Procedure of 1882, the Military Procedure Code of 1896, etc.
In the 1970s. after a long preparatory period, the codification of the branches of the new socialist law was carried out. In 1973, the General Part of the Criminal Code was adopted (Law of June 25, 1973), then a new version of the remaining parts of the Social Security Code of 1935, in 1979 - a new Criminal Code in its entirety. In 1974, laws on civil, administrative and labor processes were adopted, and in 1977 - a new CPC and the Law on the Organization of the Judicial System. Finally, in 1975, a revised Civil Code and the country's first Family Code were adopted.
The process of creating new legislation resulted in the first Cuban Constitution, approved by a referendum in 1976. Reflecting the tendency common for socialist constitutions to expand the limits of constitutional regulation, the Basic Law encompasses all the main aspects of life in Cuban society. Its political basis, the Constitution proclaimed the rule of the working people, based on a strong alliance of the working class with the peasantry and other strata of working people in town and country under the leadership of the working class and its vanguard, the Communist Party of Cuba.
In the 1980s. the Labor Code (1984), the new Civil Code (1987), and the new version of the Criminal Code (1987) were adopted. In 1982, the General Law on Housing came into force, establishing the procedure for its distribution, management of the housing stock, and ensuring its safety.
The socialist period in the development of Cuban law is characterized by a combination of socialist legal principles, ideas and institutions borrowed from the USSR and other countries of the socialist camp, with a firm adherence to national legal traditions. The latter are based not only on the rich legal culture of the former metropolis - Spain, but also on their own, very interesting experience of legal development of the pre-revolutionary period.
Among the main elements of the socialist legal system that remains in Cuba, the concept of "socialist legality", the one-party political system of the Soviet type, the priority of state and public interests over private interests, the privileged position of public property and the leading role of the state in the economy, party leadership of the courts and the law enforcement system in the whole.
The main sources of Cuban law are legislative and other normative acts, the hierarchy of which includes the Constitution, laws of the National Assembly, decrees-laws of the State Council, decrees and decisions of the Council of Ministers, rules and instructions of the Supreme People's Court, bylaws of central government bodies.
Civil and related
branches of law
Private law in Cuba has long developed as a colonial version of Spanish private law. In 1889, the Spanish Civil Code of 1888 was introduced in Cuba, which in turn was built according to the system of the French Code of 1804 and reproduces a significant number of its provisions.
The 1889 Code consisted of an introductory chapter and four books containing 1976 articles, 13 transitional and 3 additional provisions. Book I ("Persons") is devoted to individuals and family law (the position of legal entities was regulated not by the Civil Code, but by the Cuban Commercial Code of 1886), book II ("Ownership and Ownership") - to various types of property, property rights and other property rights , i.e. ownership, use and common property, usufruct and easements, property registration. Book III deals with the acquisition of property, pledge, donation, inheritance, etc. Book IV covers the law of obligations.
Like all bourgeois Civil Code of the first generation, the Code of 1889 was based on the principles of formal equality of citizens before the law, "unlimited and sacredness" of the right to private property, the principle of "freedom" of contracts, limited legal capacity of a married woman, the disenfranchised position of illegitimate children.
The introduction of the Spanish Civil and Commercial Codes in Cuba was accompanied by a number of additions and changes, mainly related to the issues of the activities of commercial societies and partnerships. After the adoption in Cuba of the democratic Constitution of 1940, the Civil Code was amended to expand the legal capacity of a married woman, granting some rights to children born out of wedlock and a number of others.
After the revolution of 1959, the Civil Code of 1889 remained in force, but its effect was limited by a number of new legislative acts. First of all, the principles of inviolability of private property and freedom of contract were limited.
As early as 1959, the state established control over all capitalist enterprises in the country, limiting (in the public interest) the activity of private entrepreneurship, as well as control over prices, currency turnover, and foreign trade. In 1959-1961. first the enterprises and property of American citizens are nationalized, then sugar factories, factories, railways and other industrial and commercial enterprises.
In the course of the agrarian reform, part of the land was nationalized, part was transferred to the peasants within a certain maximum. The land plot received by the peasant was not subject to contracts of purchase and sale, donation, lease, use, mortgage. This land could be transferred only by inheritance, sold to the state or exchanged for another (with the special permission of the competent authorities). State estates were created on the basis of the nationalized latifundia.
In 1975, a revised Civil Code was adopted. He reproduced those parts of the old Code that had not been changed by the laws on agrarian and urban reforms, on nationalization. Marriage and family relations are separated from the Civil Code in the Family Code, adopted in the same 1975. The latter is generally based on principles common to the socialist countries; at the same time, it has some peculiarities related to the political, economic and social conditions of Cuba. In accordance with the Constitution, marriage is based on absolute equality of rights and obligations of spouses, who must take care of the preservation of the family and the harmonious upbringing of children through common efforts and so that these efforts do not interfere with either spouse in their social activities. A marriage is legal if it is registered. Judicial recognition of a marriage is carried out when the union between a woman and a man meets the requirements of unity and stability. Divorce is made by the court by mutual consent of the spouses or if the court finds that the marriage has lost its meaning for the spouses, children, and therefore for society.
In 1987, the National Assembly adopted a new Cuban Civil Code, which, as it were, summed up the socialist reforms in the country's civil law. Socialist (state and cooperative) property, the property of small farmers on their land and other means and instruments of production, and the personal property of citizens were consolidated as the main forms of ownership.
The 1976 Constitution proclaimed that the economic system of socialism dominates in Cuba, based on public socialist ownership of the means of production and on the elimination of the exploitation of man by man (Article 14); the state organizes, directs and controls the economic life in the country in accordance with the Unified Plan of Social and Economic Development (Article 16).
Until the end of the 1980s. in Cuba, there was a centralized economy governed by command-administrative methods, in which any private economic initiative was excluded. Since the early 1990s. the government is carrying out reforms aimed at introducing market elements with the dominant positions of the public sector (legalizing dollar circulation in the domestic market, creating joint ventures, cooperating with the public sector of agriculture and opening agricultural markets, allowing many types of individual labor activities, reorganizing the mechanism for managing the economy, attracting foreign investment ). The legal basis for these reforms was laid with the revision of many provisions of the 1976 Constitution in 1992. Since June 1995, the list of permitted types of small business activities has been significantly expanded, now including more than 140 items. In accordance with the Law on Foreign Investment (1995), foreign investment is now allowed in almost all areas, "except for education and health care", and the creation of enterprises with 100% foreign participation is allowed.
The regulation of business relations is based on the Spanish Commercial Code of 1885. Many of the provisions of this Code have been revoked or changed by laws issued after 1958. Intellectual property rights in Cuba are governed by the Law on Inventors and Innovators 1982 and Decree-Law 68/83. There is still no bankruptcy legislation on the island.
Labor and social legislation in Cuba emerged at the beginning of the 20th century. In 1910, an 8-hour working day was introduced for government officials, hotel workers, restaurants and cafes. A minimum wage was also introduced for officials. Some attempts were also made to limit the exploitation of children (it was forbidden to employ adolescents under 14 years of age). In 1916, compensation for industrial accidents was established, and at the same time pension funds were introduced for elderly teachers, police and army personnel, court and other government officials, port workers, railroad workers and urban transport workers.
The development of labor and social legislation began at a faster pace after the revolution of 1933. Presidential decree of September 19, 1933 established an 8-hour working day for all workers, in October 1933 - a 48-hour working week. However, this did not apply to agricultural workers, domestic servants, taxi drivers, etc. The decree of November 7, 1933 confirmed the right to unionize workers and employees of all specialties, with the exception of government officials, the army and the police. He also regulated the right to strike, which could not be held without first applying to arbitration (later on, other restrictions were introduced).
After the revolution of 1959 and until the early 1990s. labor law in Cuba developed on purely socialist principles. In accordance with the Constitution, labor was proclaimed a right, a duty and a matter of honor for citizens. Cuban trade unions are nationalized and fully controlled by the Communist Party. They are entrusted with the task of actively participating in educational activities. Strikes are prohibited by law and are not permitted in practice. An important role in the regulation of labor relations belongs to the Ministry of Labor. In 1984, the Labor Code of Cuba was adopted, reflecting the approach to the regulation of labor relations typical of socialist countries. It provides employees with numerous rights, benefits and social guarantees. Fixed a 44-hour work week.
Since the early 1990s. some adjustments are made to the labor law related to the introduction of elements of market relations in the country. In September 1993, individual labor activity was legalized.
The state health care system developed greatly during the socialist period, which became the best in all of Latin America (Health Care Act 1983).
Criminal law and process
Until 1938, the Spanish Criminal Code of 1870 was in force in Cuba. It proceeded from the division of all crimes into grave, or actually crimes, and less grave, or offenses. This division remains in Cuban criminal law to this day.
The first Criminal Code of an independent Cuba was adopted in 1935 and finally enacted in 1938, together with the punishment rules prepared by the Ministry of Justice. This Code, called the "Code of Social Protection", reflects the idea of the sociological school of law, which declared the task of criminal policy not to punish a criminal, but to protect society from criminal acts. The term "punishment" itself is replaced by the term "sanction". A "dangerous condition", identified by specific symptoms, was the criterion for the application of legal responsibility, or "sanction". A distinction was made between criminal liability and security measures applied for the commission of harmful acts.
The 1935 Code consisted of four books and 594 articles, as well as a number of additional and transitional provisions. The first and second books represented the General and Special parts of the Criminal Code, respectively. Book Three dealt with violations of public order and other violations that are not crimes, but entail sanctions; methods of prevention, ensuring the safety of the "individual and society": compulsory confinement in hospitals, agricultural colonies, correctional institutions, etc.
After the victory of the 1959 revolution, the criminal legislation was subject to constant changes, although the 1935 Code remained in force for a long time. The general trend was the constant intensification of criminal repression, especially in relation to "counter-revolutionary" actions. The first acts allowed the laws adopted after the crime was committed to be applied to the defenders of the ousted regime. The Law on Increasing Accountability for Political Crimes, adopted in July 1959, reworded chapters I, III, IV of the Social Security Code concerning crimes "against the integrity and security of the state and crimes against state power." The punishment included the death penalty and imprisonment for up to 30 years. In 1960, a number of grave malfeasances envisaged by Chapters V and VI of Part VIII of Book II of the Social Security Code (embezzlement of property, forgery for the purpose of embezzlement) were classified as counter-revolutionary. In 1961, responsibility for terrorist activities was increased.
In 1973, the General Part of the Criminal Code was adopted (Law of June 25, 1973), and in 1979 - the whole new Criminal Code. The 1979 Criminal Code provided for the death penalty as an alternative punishment for a wide range of crimes. In the 1980s. there was a tendency for some softening of the Cuban criminal policy. When the Criminal Code was revised in December 1987, the death penalty was abolished for “crimes against collective security”, certain types of “crimes against peace and international law”, as well as for robbery with the use of violence or the threat of its use. In addition, a number of political crimes have been fully decriminalized, the sanctions for many common crimes have been reduced and the range of punishments alternative to imprisonment has been increased. Nevertheless, the death penalty was retained as an alternative punishment in 23 articles, 19 of which indicated crimes against state security. For another 19 crimes, it was provided for by the 1979 Law on Military Crimes.
The Cuban Criminal Code enshrines the class nature of criminal legislation, the priority of protecting state interests over personal ones, and the corresponding interpretation of the concept of crime. At the same time, unlike other socialist criminal codes, it reflects the concept of a "dangerous state" (pre-legal danger), and along with punishments, security measures are provided.
In the Special Part of the Criminal Code of Cuba, there are still many corpus delicti typical of socialist criminal law (the use of a position in a state-owned enterprise for personal gain, speculation, illegal departure from the country). In 1993, criminal liability for possession of currency was abolished.
The main sources of criminal procedure law are the Constitution and the Code of Criminal Procedure of 1977 (replaced the Code of Criminal Procedure in 1882). The Basic Law (Article 58) enshrines a number of important procedural guarantees, in particular, it is established that every accused has the right to defense; it is prohibited to use violence or coercion of any kind against persons in order to force them to testify; any testimony obtained in violation of this rule will be invalidated and the perpetrators will be subject to the penalties prescribed by law.
Cuban criminal procedure is based on the principles of socialist legality, publicity, transparency, equality of citizens before the law and court. However, despite the generality of the principles of the Criminal Procedure Code of Cuba, it has a number of important differences from the legislation of other socialist countries, which is due to the preservation of a number of previous legal traditions on the island.
Among the features of the Criminal Procedure Code of Cuba is the presence of norms that determine the procedural procedure for the appointment of security measures. According to Article 404 of the Criminal Procedure Code, the jurisdiction of the municipal people's courts includes the consideration of signs of pre-legal danger and the appointment of security measures in all cases when it is established by a substantive criminal law. In accordance with Article 405 of the CPC, proceedings on considering the sign of pre-legal danger begin at the written request of the prosecutor, which sets out the facts and data necessary to identify the person against whom the security measure is directed, and also proposes a specific measure. In the case of mental illness, drug addiction and dipsomania (binge), such a petition can be submitted by the guardian or legal representative of the person to whom the security measure should be applied, and in their absence, by the relative under whose guardianship the said person is. The final question of the degree of security is decided by the court (Article 417).
The CPC (but not the Constitution) of Cuba provides for such an institution as the appeal in the order of habeas corpus (appeal to the court of the legality of detention). This institution was borrowed from the Anglo-Saxon legal system and had no application in the criminal procedural legislation of the USSR and other socialist states, since in them supervision over the legality of detention and arrest was carried out exclusively by the prosecutor's office. According to the Criminal Procedure Code of Cuba, a person can be held in custody for no more than 7 days before a court decision.
If the Soviet criminal procedural legislation knew only cassation, then the Cuban one provides for both cassation and appeal.
In municipal courts, criminal cases are heard by collegia of one professional judge and two lay judges. More serious criminal cases in the provincial courts are heard by a collegium of 3 professional judges and 2 lay judges.
A special, complicated procedure has been established for the imposition of death sentences. Cases of crimes punishable by death, which fall under the jurisdiction of civil courts, are first heard in the provincial people's court. Cases that have been sentenced to death are automatically sent to the Supreme People's Court for review. If this court has confirmed the verdict, the Minister of Justice examines the case and makes recommendations to the Council of State. The Council of State has the right to decide whether to execute the convicted person or to pardon; pardon takes the form of replacing the death penalty with imprisonment for a term not exceeding 30 years.
According to international observers, legal procedural guarantees and principles of justice are often not respected in practice, especially in relation to political prisoners.
The judicial system. Control bodies
The foundations of the judicial system are enshrined in Chapter X of the Cuban Constitution "Courts and Prosecutors". The function of administering justice belongs to the people and is carried out on their behalf by the Supreme People's Court and other courts established by law (Article 121). The courts constitute a system of state bodies, functionally independent from any other bodies and subordinate only to the National Assembly of People's Power and the State Council (Article 122). In the exercise of their functions, judges are independent and are subject only to the law.
According to Article 124 of the Constitution, the Supreme People's Court is the highest court and its decisions are final. Through its presidium, it exercises legislative initiative and powers in accordance with the rules of procedure, makes decisions and publishes rules that are binding on all people's courts, and, based on their experience, issues mandatory instructions for the establishment of uniform judicial practice in the interpretation and application of the law.
The provisions of Article 124 of the Constitution are reproduced in paragraph "b" of Article 21 of the Law "On the Organization of the Judicial System". The Plenary Session of the Supreme People's Court of the Republic may send the judges of this court to the provincial and municipal people's courts to check the sentences passed, obtain information on the state of crime, as well as on various aspects of the activities of the named courts, collect information on the correct and uniform application of the law and in connection with the publication of relevant instructions. The Plenary Session, through the Governing Council, exercises control and supervision over the judicial activities of all courts.
The second link in the Cuban legal system is made up of provincial courts, which deal with certain categories of criminal, civil and other cases at first instance, as well as complaints against decisions of the municipal courts that make up the lower link. Municipal courts consider the bulk of all criminal, civil and other cases at first instance. A separate vertical is formed by military tribunals, for which the military chamber of the Supreme People's Court is the highest instance.
The Supreme People's Court and the provincial courts have chambers (salas) for criminal, civil, administrative, labor and state security affairs (the Supreme People's Court is also a military chamber).
All courts make decisions collectively. Professional judges and lay assessors have equal rights and responsibilities.
Courts are accountable for their activities to the Assembly that elected them at least once a year. The right to recall judges belongs to the body that elected them. Article 66 of the Cuban Constitution stipulates that all courts are elected and renewed periodically. The Law on the Organization of the Judicial System of 1977 regulates in detail the procedure for the selection of judges and assessors, and also indicates the requirements that must be met by persons elected to the office of judges and as assessors. According to Article 66 of this Law, a judge must be fit to carry out advocacy; have a diploma issued or endorsed by a university or an authorized official institution; be a Cuban citizen by birth or naturalization; actively participate in revolutionary activities; be of high moral character and a worthy reputation.
Cuba continues to have peer courts for minor offenses and certain types of civil disputes.
Prosecutions in criminal cases (only for crimes, not misdemeanors) and general supervision are carried out by the prosecutor's office. In accordance with the Constitution (Article 130), the main task of the General Prosecutor's Office of the Republic is to monitor the observance of socialist legality by state bodies, economic and social institutions and citizens. The prosecutor's office also initiates applications for the application of security measures, approves decisions on the conduct of a search, checks the legality of detention, monitors the execution of sentences, and is of public interest in non-criminal proceedings.
The Office of the Attorney General is a single body subordinate exclusively to the National Assembly of People's Power and the Council of State. The Attorney General receives instructions directly from the Council of State and reports on his activities to the National Assembly of People's Power at least once a year. He directs the activities of the prosecutor's office throughout the national territory. The prosecutor's office is organized vertically, subordinate only to the General Prosecutor's Office and independent of local authorities.
The Attorney General and his deputies are elected and may be recalled by the National Assembly of People's Power. The Attorney General is an ex-officio member of the Presidium of the Supreme People's Court.
Literature
Krasheninnikova N.A. History of the state and law of Cuba. M., 1966.
Azieri M. Introduction to Cuban Socialist Law // Review of Socialist Law. Vol. 6. 1980. P. 153-163.
Berman H.J. Impressions of Cuban Law // American Journal of Comparative Law. Vol. 28. 1980. P. 475-486.
Lisborne J. Cuba // International Encyclopedia of Comparative Law. Vol. 1. 1977. P. C95-102.
Free economic zones were created. In 1997, there were already three FEZs in the country (Mariel, Wahai and the city of Havana).
Cuba exports, bringing income to the budget of its country, tobacco, seafood, sugar, nickel, medical goods, coffee, citrus fruits.
China, Canada, Spain and the Netherlands became Cuba's export partners. China has invested 500 million dollars in the Cuban nickel industry, Brazil - the same amount in the development of Cuban hydrocarbon deposits, in the construction of a plant for the production of technical oils. A large nickel ore mining plant has been built in the Holguín province.
The country imports today foodstuffs, oil products, industrial equipment, and chemical products. Its import business partners are Venezuela, China, Spain. Particularly tight and productive ties in terms of the Petrocaribe oil program with Venezuela. The trade turnover between the states annually reaches about $ 10 billion.
Since 1962, a rationing system for the distribution of products has been introduced in the country. The "black market" is flourishing, as rationed products are not regularly issued here.
Cuba has a developed system of free public services: medical care, higher, secondary education.
Since October 2010, the list of types of entrepreneurial activities permitted by the government has increased in the country. In 2016, private small and medium-sized businesses were legalized.
Cuban branches of government
Cuba is a socialist republic of the parliamentary type. Most of the deputies in parliament today represent the Communist Party of Cuba.
The head of state is the chairman of the Council of State (who is also the General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba), who exercises executive power in the country. He is assisted by the chairman of the Council of Ministers, who is also the second secretary of the Central Committee.
The government of the Cuban state consists of two branches: the Council of Ministers and the Council of State. The ministry employs 31 ministers.
The highest authority on Liberty Island is the National Assembly of People's Power, i.e. parliament of the republic. It includes 609 deputies who are elected for 5 years. She was entrusted with the formation of the government, the appointment of the head of the state council. The Assembly is also responsible for the election of the People's Supreme Court. The provincial courts are elected by the provincial assemblies of the people's power, the municipal courts by the municipal assemblies.
The Republic of Cuba is administratively divided into 16 provinces, which are respectively divided into 169 municipalities. Only one municipality is accountable to the central authorities - Juventud, the rest are subordinate to local administrative structures.
Cuba's participation in international organizations
In recent years, having changed course in the political sphere, being squeezed by economic sanctions, Cuba has become more active in influential international organizations.
The republic is a member of the World Trade Organization, takes an active part in international agreements: the Paris Convention, the New York Convention on International Arbitration, and the Madrid Protocol. Cuba is a member of the international organization of the ACP states. Cuba has been participating in social programs at the international level for several decades.
There are 57 Cuban professionals working in 101 countries, of which 70% are health workers. One of the Cuban programs "Operation Miracle" provides affordable medical care in 16 countries to poor seriously ill people. There is a “Yes, I Can” program in 28 Latin American countries aimed at combating illiteracy.
Whichever direction Cuba goes, the beauty of its natural landscape, the originality of its culture and the attractiveness of the Cuban mentality will remain unchanged.
