Citizen Engagement in Cuba: Neighbors and the State in Pogolotti

Citizen Engagement in Cuba: Neighbors and the State in Pogolotti explores citizen engagement at the local level in Cuba, highlighting the nuanced relationship between citizens and the state. The book focuses on Pogolotti, a community that exemplifies active participation by citizens, showcasing the willingness of communist authorities to work with officially sanctioned workshops and partner with civic groups.

Format: Hardback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 15 February 2024
Publisher: Lexington Books

Citizen Engagement in Cuba: Neighbors and the State in Pogolotti delves into the intricate tapestry of citizen involvement at the grassroots level in Cuba. Since the 1990s, community-driven initiatives have emerged as a powerful force, shedding light on the complex dynamics between citizens and the state. However, a prevailing misconception in the United States often conflates the communist government of Cuba with the totalitarian regimes of Eastern Europe, portraying the Cuban people as helpless and subject to punishment for daring to challenge the status quo. In reality, the Cuban landscape is far more nuanced and multifaceted.

This book serves as a lens through which to explore this nuanced reality, focusing on the historical significance of Pogolotti as the first low-cost housing community in Cuba in 1910. Pogolotti stands as a testament to the active participation of citizens in shaping their community. It is through projects like these that the relationship between citizens and the state in Cuba becomes clearer. The willingness of communist authorities to collaborate with officially sanctioned workshops and partner with civic groups indicates a level of citizen engagement that has yet to be fully explored. This collaboration signifies a mutual respect and understanding between citizens and the state, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and progress.

By examining the experiences of Pogolotti and other communities, Citizen Engagement in Cuba: Neighbors and the State in Pogolotti offers a valuable insight into the complex interplay between citizens, the state, and social change in Cuba. It challenges the notion of a monolithic and authoritarian state and highlights the resilience and creativity of the Cuban people in navigating the challenges they face. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the intricacies of citizen involvement in Cuba and its broader implications for the region.

Weight: 490g
Dimension: 159 x 236 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781666907568