The National Assembly of People's Power in its ninth session approved the new Family Code, an inclusive, modern document in line with the characteristics of today's Cuba.

By María Josefina Arce

The National Assembly of People's Power in its ninth session approved the new Family Code, an inclusive, modern document in line with the characteristics of today's Cuba.

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel stressed that this is a Family Code, above all, of spirit, of feelings, of understanding towards a group of problems that were not solved in our society.

The text, which has had several versions until reaching the 25th version given the green light by the deputies, is the result of months of work by thousands of legal professionals and consultation with the population.

It should be recalled that from February 1 to April 30, more than six million Cubans expressed their opinion on the document in meetings at schools, workplaces and in their communities.

Likewise, citizens were able to express their opinions, doubts and suggestions through other established channels, such as e-mail accounts and telephone numbers.

It was learned that during this process 434,860 proposals were collected and more than 60% of the society has expressed its support for the Code.

As a result of all these opinions expressed by the population, which were carefully studied by the Drafting Commission, 49.15% of the articles were modified.

In this regard, the Cuban Minister of Justice, Oscar Silvera Martínez, emphasized that each criterion was reviewed and taken into account, without disregarding the coherence with the constitutional mandates, international treaties, the rest of the legal systems and the respect for the rights of the different families.

Throughout this time, the deputies have held meetings with experts and the Drafting Commission to prepare for the new analysis during this session.

The document undoubtedly reflects the transformations of Cuban society and incorporates novelties related to parental responsibility, marriage, adoption, confronting gender violence and care for the elderly.

The new Family Code, which will be submitted to a popular referendum on September 25, is the result of our experience, but above all of the contribution of Cubans, who have helped to give life and enrich this important document, which, as has been pointed out, reflects the wisdom of the people.