Cuba may be starting to open itself up to the outside world, but the government “continues to repress dissent and discourage public criticism”, according to Human Rights Watch. “Repressive tactics employed by the government include beatings, public acts of shaming, and the termination of employment.” Still, as in China, the Church in Cuba is growing. Religious organisations are the only authorised assemblies, and their activities are being increasingly tolerated, opening a window of opportunity for social change through the activities of the Church.
The potential impact of US elections on the Church in Cuba
It’s been a year since the US embassy in Havana was opened, followed by the historic visit by President Barack Obama. Since then, collaboration between the two countries has increased. “Direct flights are due to begin this month, travel restrictions have been eased for US citizens and bilateral cooperation increased […]
Why the Cuban Church is still under pressure
Cuba is one of the few remaining communist governments in the world. Ten years ago, the country’s ageing leader, Fidel Castro, was replaced by his brother, Raúl, but the government stayed essentially the same and desired changes did not take place, although there have been relaxed controls over some […]
Pope Francis meets Patriarch Kirill
[<a href=”//storify.com/wwmonitor/pope-francis-meets-patriarch-kirill” target=”_blank”>View the story “Pope Francis meets Patriarch Kirill” on Storify</a>]
Cuba’s religious freedom violations on the rise
Christian Solidarity Worldwide has released a report documenting a dramatic increase in the abuse of religious freedom in Cuba. According to CSW some of the violations include: severe harassment and violent beatings of Protestant pastors and lay workers; scores of women violently dragged away from Sunday morning services by state […]