The signing of the International Covenants on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and on Civil and Political Rights is a done deal. I saw it on the news with the oaf and the slogans, so there can be no doubt. There are two aspects that draw my attention: The first is the disappointing pronunciation of Chancellor Pérez Roque. It could be a protocol requirement of the United Nations, the truth is I don’t recall previously having seen their making their declarations in English. And what English! I do not recommend it. The second, which shouldn’t surprise me so much, is that he continues throwing the blame for everything on the blockade. It’s tough for me to decipher the relationship, to give just one example, between the blockade and a swap at Varadero.
I think the most significant thing for us is yet to happen. It will be to check the limits that are imposed on the realization of these aforementioned rights. I am taking this opportunity to record what I consider indicators of a complete intention for full recognition by my government and, in my view, the expectations of many Cubans.
- That they free our fellow countrymen imprisoned for having made anticipatory use of freedom of expression.
- The ability to visit a friend who lives in Germany and return to Cuba without asking permission of my government. Alternatively, that my friend—who is Cuban—can return to Cuba when he desires.
- To choose a better education for my children, with experienced teachers and no improvisations that depend on a remote control.
- To rely on trade unions that are independent of civil and political organizations, and which respond to the interests of the workers who elect them.
- To pass a short holiday in any hotel in the capital or the keys. In reality this possibility is foreseen in the Cuban Constitution, but since in practice you can’t do it, I am recording it here just in case…
