Discussion topic - Assignment Example

Discussion Topic Discussion Topic The chapter talks about “Cuba and the Road to Sustainability”. The chapter highlights various issues that Cuba went through in the 20th century. Different challenges faced Cuba before achieving sustainability. One of the challenges was corruption perpetrated by the regime of Batista, a Cuban ex-President. The other challenge has been due to various embargoes placed by United States due to various irreconcilable differences with Cuba. Another challenge was the collapse of Soviet Union that was a key partner to Cuba. However, Cuba managed to overcome these challenges and achieves sustainability through an initiative put in place by Castro known as ‘Special Period in Times of Peace’ (SPTP).
In this chapter, I have realized a number of things. First, I have realized that it is possible for a country to emerge from various challenges and focus on development. In this case, Cuba did not lag on its challenges, but used the challenges to achieving sustainability that is evident today and envied by various countries around the world. Moreover, it is clear that a government can be able to support its people, even when resources are few through proper management. Cuba has been able to use few resources to educate its citizens, provide adequate health, as well as provide other necessary requirements.
In addition, it is not always good for the country to rely on foreign help in case of various challenges. Sometimes the country can find a solution to the problems locally. For example, in Cuba, the SPTP initiative has helped the country to overcome numerous domestic challenges. The country now produces and consumes resources in a sustainable manner. This should be used as a model by other countries especially the developing countries. Read More