The Catholic Church and Economic and Political Change in Cuba

On April 25, the Inter-American Dialogue hosted a conversation on the Cuba’s evolving political and economic situation and how the Catholic Church views its role in the country. Our featured guest was Roberto Veiga, the editor of Espacio Laical, a lay publication on current affairs, and a prominent advisor to the Archdiocese of Havana. University of Denver scholar Arturo Lopez-Levy, who writes widely on issues related to Cuba and US relations with the island, offered comments. Participants contributed to a lively and well-informed exchange on recent developments in Cuba, including the visit of Pope Benedict and last month's Communist Party conference, and where they are leading. Veiga shared his views on the challenges confronting the Catholic Church in the country, and discuss its activities to improve the welfare of the Cuban people and encourage a more open society and economy.