The Changing Dynamic of Cuban Civil Society

Contemporary Cuba

by Antoni Kapcia (Editor), Alexander I. Gray (Editor)

Does a civil society actually exist in Cuba today and if so what is its nature and role? In seeking answers to this hotly contested and highly politicized question, Alexander Gray and Antoni Kapcia have assembled an impressive and diverse group of contributors. The essays in The Changing Dynamic of Cuban Civil Society range from general discussion of the private sector to case studies about volunteer work, religious entities, and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). Since the fall of the Soviet Union and the economic crisis in 1990, the Cuban state has experienced severe challenges, and individuals have been forced to respond in unexpected ways to ensure their economic survival. Avoiding polemics and preconceptions, this volume brings a fresh and welcome perspective to one of the most vexing issues in Cuban society today.

256 pages, Hardcover

First published March 9, 2008

Reviews

[Andrés Pertierra · Rating 3 out of 5]

Intro and conclusions don't really respect the reader's intelligence but the chapter on civil society debates within Cuba in the 1990s is a really great summary and one-stop-shop to identify key readings. Other chapters are fine.