Cuba has announced the reduction of 92 thousand state positions over several weeks. This decision is part of a package of reforms aimed at liberalizing and decentralizing the collapsed national economy.
State Administration Reform
According to Marrero, this represents the 'first step' in implementing the Law on the Organization of Central State Administration, which will lead to the abolition of several ministries. Marrero explained to deputies that most of the jobs being cut were currently vacant.
Further Steps and Changes
The Prime Minister added that in September, the remaining ministries will announce corresponding staff reductions in their departments, although he did not provide specific figures. Previously, the Council of Ministers approved the Draft Law on the Organization of Central State Administration in April, which provides for reducing the number of central governing bodies from 27 to 20, leading to the liquidation of several ministries.
Proposed Mergers
Under this regulatory act, it is proposed to merge the Ministry of Economy and Planning with the Ministry of Finance and Prices, as well as the Ministry of Science and Technology with the Ministry of Higher Education, and the Ministry of Agriculture with the Ministry of Food Industry. Marrero justified this necessity by stating that 'a country with such a complex situation cannot have such a large structure and so much bureaucracy.'
Economic Situation in Cuba
Cuba has been in a severe crisis for six years, during which the island's gross domestic product (GDP) has decreased by 15%, according to official data. The situation worsened significantly since January of last year when the US increased pressure on the country. Washington uses its policy of maximum pressure to achieve a number of political and economic changes in Cuba.
