14ymedio, Zunilda Mata, Havana, 8 March 2016 – On Monday, more than 6,000 professionals in the technology, information and communications sector created the Union of Information Scientists of Cuba (UIC). The new entity has been unable to shake off political language in its founding journal, and in its Code of Ethics there is a commitment to maintain “a conscious and voluntary loyalty to the fatherland.”
The process of creating the UIC began in February of 2015, and throughout this year there have been provincial assemblies to discuss the objectives of the organization. This process has coincided with a significant increase in the use of information and communication technologies (TIC) on the part of the Cuban population and in the private offerings of audiovisuals.
The UIC carries part of the heavy burden of the “revolutionary organizations” founded primarily in the sixties. Despite which it expects to be flexible, bold, connected and committed to its time, as well as demanding fidelity to the principals of the Revolution, as was clear from the day of its founding.
Some 200 delegates participating in the Constituent National Assembly of the UIC signed its Code of Ethics, which governs the behavior of affiliated professional. The principals range from ensuring compliance with the laws, to maintaining strict confidentiality of information that comes to them through their work.
Ailyn Febles Estrada, president of the Organizing Committee of the UIC said that this organization will be “self-financed and non-profit.” In its statutes it specifies that it has legal standing and its own assets and that its legal seat is in the province of Havana.
In the opening act, where many government officials participated led by Vice President Miguel Diaz-Canel, the National Council and the Board were presented. Several speakers noted that this is the first organization founded in the 21st century.
The news has caused barely any reaction in the information sector, which is dedicated mainly to developing custom applications and software and installing programs on smartphones, tablets and computers.
