Key Metrics

  • 31%
    of land area is forest cover
  • 11%
    of the population migrated to the US in 2021
  • 86%
    of students graduate high school
  • 26%
    of Cubans live in poverty

Current Situation

Cuba is an alluring country in the Caribbean with rich cultural history, but continues to suffer under harsh political regimes.

Cuba is in the midst of its most severe economic contraction since the collapse of the Soviet Union, with the government reporting an 11% contraction last year. Employment opportunities are limited and the state still continues to dominate. The worsening economic situation resulted in widespread protests due to basic necessities shortages and inflation in July 2021. The government responded to the demonstrations with civil rights abuses, punishment of protestors, and wrongful imprisonments. For these reasons, rates of migration out of Cuba to North and South America remains high.

Education in Cuba is accessed by most and is high-quality. Although one of the poorest countries in Latin America, the government prioritizes education spending, and students perform well on standardized tests. Due to the tense political climate in Cuba, however, there is permeation of indoctrination and censorship throughout the education system.

As an island, Cuba also has great exposure to natural disasters, such as tropical storms, tropical cyclones, and severe local storms, all with intense rains and winds, in addition to earthquakes. The environment is under great threat due to substandard farming practices that have led to deforestation, a decrease in biodiversity, and desertification.

The Solution

Magis Americas is partnering with Jesuits to accompany our Cuban brothers and sisters by promoting programs so they can be protagonists in their stories. With the Loyola Centers Network throughout the country, we strengthen the ability of individuals in Cuba to participate in a broad-based market economy through English classes, employment training, and informational workshops. Entrepreneurship programs include specific classes geared toward women, trade skills classes, and incubator sessions to promote new businesses.

Our Partners

Our partners in Cuba include the Loyola Centers Network.