Cubans vote for new constitution
A significant event in Cuba!
On February 24, 2021, Cubans went to the polls to vote on a new constitution, which was approved with a majority of 86.86% in favor. The new constitution replaces the 1976 constitution, which was written during the early years of the Cuban Revolution.
The new constitution reflects the country's evolution and the changes that have taken place since the 1970s. Some key features of the new constitution include:
- Recognition of private property: The new constitution recognizes private property, which was not explicitly mentioned in the previous constitution. This change is seen as a step towards greater economic liberalization.
- Increased autonomy for provinces: The new constitution grants more autonomy to the provinces, allowing them to make decisions on issues such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure development.
- Protection of human rights: The new constitution includes a chapter on human rights, which guarantees the rights of citizens, including freedom of speech, assembly, and association.
- Recognition of the role of the Communist Party: The new constitution recognizes the Communist Party of Cuba as the leading force of society and the state, but also establishes the principle of multi-party democracy.
- Changes to the electoral system: The new constitution introduces changes to the electoral system, including the creation of a new electoral commission and the use of proportional representation.
The approval of the new constitution is seen as a significant step towards modernizing Cuba's political system and strengthening its institutions. The process of drafting the new constitution was led by the Cuban National Assembly, which received input from citizens, civil society organizations, and international experts.
The new constitution will come into effect on April 10, 2021, and will be implemented over the next few years.