Power structures and political processes in Cuba: an unstable stability

The article analyzes the political reforms enshrined in the 2019 Constitution. Particular attention is paid to the functions of government structures, their personnel composition, and the activities of the main political actors. The critical socioeconomic situation in the country led to mass social protests in July 2021 and subsequent protests by the population. Relative stabilization was achieved as a result of dialogue between the government and society and targeted solutions to accumulated problems, on the one hand, and harsh suppression of protests, on the other, as well as due to the mass emigration of opponents of the regime. The further situation will depend on the government’s ability to find a balance between social justice and economic efficiency, but if existing problems are not resolved, the possibility of a social explosion cannot be completely ruled out. The lifting or easing of sanctions by the United States and a significant increase in foreign aid could help to overcome the systemic crisis.