The National Democratic Institute is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization working to support and strengthen democratic institutions worldwide through citizen participation, openness and accountability in government.

January 1, 2010 marked the 51st anniversary of the Cuban revolution and over a half of century of rule by the Castro brothers. Despite hopes that the change in power from Fidel to Raúl Castro in February 2008 would bring reform to the Western Hemisphere’s only dictatorship, Raúl’s government has proved to be at least as repressive.While instituting minor economic reforms, such as allowing private farmers to purchase goods directly from suppliers, turning over state-run beauty shops to employees, and experimenting with taxi drivers leasing their vehicles, the Cuban government continues to control all aspects of society and represses any attempts by independent-thinking Cubans to advocate for democratic reforms.

Political prisoner Orlando Zapata Tamayo died on February 23 after an 83-day hunger strike protesting his prison conditions. His death sparked similar protests by other prisoners and human rights activists and as well as demands for their release. Foreign governments and representatives of the Catholic Church in Cuba have approached the Cuban Government concerning human rights issues and treatment of Cuba’s political prisoners

Cuba holds approximately 200 total political prisoners. Fifty-five have been named prisoners of conscience by Amnesty International. In June, the Cuban Government released Ariel Sigler, a paraplegic political prisoner with severe health problems.

NDI’s seeks to promote international awareness of the activities of Cuban democratic activists by conducting outreach to political and civic leaders, and international organizations around the world to provide recognition, support and solidarity for those struggling peacefully for democracy on the island. NDI also shares lessons and information from other democratic transitions with Cubans on the island.

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