Pragmatism kills communism
Cuba is gradually introducing reforms that weaken the state's grip on its people
Slowly, the veneer of communism in Cuba is beginning to crumble. Since replacing his ailing brother Fidel as president of the Caribbean island nation, Raul Castro has gradually introduced a series of reforms aimed at strengthening its economy. But the reforms have also lessened the grip of the state on all aspects of Cuban life.
In the past month alone, Cuban authorities have revised property ownership laws, opening the door ever so slightly to allow foreigners to lease land on the sun-soaked state.
The latest crack in the communist doctrine is allowing self-employment in a state where for the past five decades there has been no official unemployment and where all work for the central government.
Last week, Fidel himself mused that communist economic policies did not work and may not have been beneficial to his people.
These reforms are to be welcomed. There is hope that freedom for all will follow.
