The Political Economics of Siege

Abstract

The siege against Cuba has come at deep political and economic cost. Millions of taxpayer’s dollars have been spent to break down the walls, those policies in turn totaling billions in lost revenues to the island. Few have been spared punishment for having what the United States deems illegal commercial relations with Cuba—from international businessmen, major financial institutions, multinational corporations to small travel agencies and charitable organizations. Seniors, religious groups, and students have been fined simply for wanting to see life in the socialist country. Punitive economic consequences would be impossible, however, without the purchase of the political will in Washington. Rarely have elected officials, up to and including the president, shown the nerve to spend the political capital needed to alter the dynamics of the relationship. The opposite holds true, as the revolution becomes a favorite whipping boy when politicians need to cash in on public sentiment or entice campaign donations. “Cuba bashing is like ordering pizza; it’s cheap and easy and everyone likes you for it,” Washington lawyer José Pertierra remarked.¹

45 minutes of the blockade is equal to the material to construct a school for special needs children.

Three days of blockade is equal to the construction of one hospital.

—Billboards throughout Havana