Cuba’s Family Code Celebrates One Year: A Beacon of Diversity, Tolerance, and Equality

Cuba’s Family Code Celebrates One Year: A Beacon of Diversity, Tolerance, and Equality

A Milestone for Cuba: Celebrating a Year of the Family Code

The Cuban Family Code, a progressive legislation that acknowledges diversity, tolerance, and equality, marked its first anniversary recently. The Justice Minister of Cuba, Oscar Silvera, celebrated the occasion, emphasizing the significant role this legislation plays in guiding Cuban citizens towards a more inclusive society.

A Code for the Cuban Family: Embracing Diversity and Equality

The Cuban Family Code was approved by the National Assembly of People’s Power (Parliament) on July 22 of last year and was endorsed in a public referendum on September 25, with 66.85 percent of valid votes cast. Known also as the ‘code of affection’, this law seeks to support individuals not only through blood relations but also through good behavior, care, and solidarity. It recognizes dignity as a supreme value and the basis for the rest of the rights acknowledged in the 2019 Constitution of the Republic.

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The Impact of the Family Code on Cuban Society

Olga Lidia Pérez, the General Director of Notaries and Public Records, highlighted the gradual adoption of the Code by the citizens. She noted that citizens are increasingly using the different figures regulated by the Code, implementing them according to their needs and circumstances.

The Challenges in Implementing the Family Code

Despite the progress, experts have highlighted several challenges in the implementation of the law. These challenges are primarily associated with the limited technical and multidisciplinary preparation of some legal professionals. There are also concerns about adherence to the principles imposed by the 1975 Family Code, which has been in force for over four decades.

Another challenge lies in overcoming persistent stereotypes and prejudices. A limited perception of the need to adopt urgent measures to protect vulnerable individuals, especially children and adolescents, is also seen as an obstacle to the law’s implementation.

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Looking Ahead: The Future of the Cuban Family Code

The Cuban Family Code is a significant step towards building a more inclusive and tolerant society in Cuba. Despite the challenges, its endorsement by a majority of Cubans in a public referendum is a testament to the changing attitudes and growing acceptance of diversity and equality in the country.

As Cuba continues to navigate its journey towards inclusivity, the Family Code serves as a landmark legislation, embodying the principles of dignity, tolerance, and equality. The celebration of its first anniversary is not only a milestone for Cuba but also a beacon of hope for other nations striving for social equality.

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