Cubans Take to Streets in Protest Against Food Shortages, Blackouts

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel has called for dialogue with the people and warned that ’the enemies’ are seeking to exploit the situation.

A woman uses her mobile phone in downtown Havana on March 17, 2024. Alexandre Meneghini/Reuters

Hundreds of Cuban protesters took to the streets on March 17, demanding food and electricity as the island faces daily power outages sometimes lasting more than 18 hours.

Social media posts show people chanting “electricity and food” during protests in Santiago. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel has confirmed the protests and called for dialogue with the people.