What is Cuba?
Cuba is a Caribbean island nation located to the south of the United States, east of Mexico. Known for its communist government, vibrant culture, rich history, and beautiful beaches, Cuba is a unique and important nation in the Caribbean region.
Provinces in Cuba
Cuba is divided into 15 provinces and one special municipality (Isla de la Juventud):
- Havana (La Habana)
- Pinar del Río
- Artemisa
- Mayabeque
- Matanzas
- Cienfuegos
- Villa Clara
- Sancti Spíritus
- Ciego de Ávila
- Camagüey
- Las Tunas
- Holguín
- Granma
- Santiago de Cuba
- Guantánamo
- Isla de la Juventud (Special Municipality)
Each province is governed by local authorities under the direction of the central government.
Currency Details
- Currency Name: Cuban Peso (CUP)
- Symbol: $
- Subunit: Centavos (1 CUP = 100 centavos)
- Central Bank: Central Bank of Cuba
Note: Cuba also uses the Convertible Peso (CUC) for tourism, which is pegged to the US Dollar but is being phased out in favor of the CUP.
Type of Government
Cuba is a socialist republic with a one-party system under the leadership of the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC). The government operates under the principle of democratic centralism, with the President as the head of state and government.
Detailed Hierarchy of Government Roles
Executive Branch Hierarchy
| Position | Role Description | Power & Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| President of the Republic | Head of State and Government | Leads the executive branch, represents Cuba internationally, and enforces laws. |
| First Secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba | Head of the Communist Party | Controls the policies and direction of the Communist Party, which holds ultimate authority. |
| Prime Minister | Head of the Government | Responsible for directing the country’s administration and implementing policies. |
| Council of Ministers | Executive body | Consists of various ministers who oversee specific government departments (e.g., Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Foreign Affairs). |
Legislative Branch Hierarchy
| Position | Role Description | Power & Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| National Assembly of People’s Power | The legislative body of Cuba | Consists of 605 members elected to 5-year terms. It passes laws, approves budgets, and supervises the executive branch. |
| Standing Committee | Subcommittee of the National Assembly | Handles specific legislative functions between sessions. |
| Deputies | Members of the National Assembly | Elected representatives who propose and debate laws. |
Judicial Branch Hierarchy
| Position | Role Description | Power & Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Supreme Court of Cuba | Highest judicial body | Interprets laws, ensures the uniform application of laws, and hears appeals. |
| Provincial Courts | Courts for specific provinces | Handle serious criminal, civil, and administrative cases. |
| Municipal Courts | Local courts | Handle minor cases and smaller criminal offenses. |
| Judges and Clerks | Court personnel | Responsible for legal procedures, case documentation, and maintaining court order. |
Separation of Powers
Legislative
- Function: Makes laws
- Tenure: Deputies are elected for 5 years.
- Departments: Economic Affairs, Foreign Affairs, Education, Health, etc.
Executive
- Function: Enforces laws
- Tenure: The President serves for a five-year term and can be reelected.
- Departments Controlled: Health, Education, Agriculture, Finance, Tourism
Judicial
- Function: Interprets and applies laws
- Tenure: Judges serve for indefinite terms unless removed for misconduct.
- Departments Controlled: Supreme Court, Provincial Courts, Municipal Courts
International Memberships
- United Nations (UN)
- Non-Aligned Movement
- ALBA (Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of Our America)
- OAS (Organization of American States) (Cuba’s membership was suspended, but the country has been in discussions for re-engagement)
Military and Law Enforcement
Cuban Armed Forces
Cuba has a well-established military, known for its strategic importance and historical involvement in international conflicts. The Cuban Armed Forces consist of the Cuban Revolutionary Army, Cuban Navy, Cuban Air Force, and Cuban Interior Ministry (MININT).
- Cuban Revolutionary Armed Forces (FAR) includes active-duty and reserve military personnel.
- Cuban Military Special Forces: Elite units, including special operations teams.
- Cuban Police: Governed by the Ministry of the Interior (MININT), responsible for national law enforcement.
Law Enforcement Hierarchy
| Level | Position | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Ministry of the Interior (MININT) | Minister, Officers | Responsible for internal security and law enforcement throughout the country |
| National Revolutionary Police (PNR) | Chief, Officers | Handles criminal investigations, law enforcement duties |
| Cuban Border Guards | Officers | Responsible for protecting Cuban borders, preventing illegal immigration |
Stock Markets
Cuba has no active stock exchange due to its socialist economic model. The economy is largely controlled by the state, and most businesses are state-run or government-regulated.
Emergency Numbers
| Emergency Type | Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| General Emergency | 106 | For police, fire, and medical emergencies |
| Ambulance | 104 | Immediate medical assistance |
| Police | 105 | Contact for law enforcement |
SWOT Analysis of Cuba
Strengths
- Strong healthcare system and education.
- Strategic geographical location for trade and tourism.
- High-quality healthcare and public services.
Weaknesses
- Economic dependence on state-controlled enterprises.
- Limited internet access and media freedom.
- Economic sanctions and embargoes from the U.S.
Opportunities
- Growing tourism sector.
- Potential for economic reforms and trade expansions, particularly with Latin American nations.
Threats
- Continued economic and political isolation due to sanctions.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters (e.g., hurricanes).
Additional Information
- Time Zones: Cuba Standard Time (CST), UTC -5:00.
- National Symbols:
- Flag: Five blue and white stripes with a red triangle and white star.
- National Anthem: “La Bayamesa”