By María Josefina Arce

A year ago, Cubans in a historic popular referendum approved the Code of Families, of a markedly inclusive, humanitarian character and impregnated with the wisdom of the people.
   
In the last twelve months, its implementation has been satisfactory according to experts. Little by little, they affirm, the citizens make use of the figures that regulate the document, built among all.
  
Although some stereotypes and prejudices still persist, progress has been made and the population's knowledge of this important tool that promotes the rights of all members of the main cell of society has increased.
  
The Family Code defends principles such as gender equality, an aspect on which the revolution has worked over the years to achieve the empowerment of women, who every day occupy a greater space in the country's development and decision-making.
  
Of vital importance is that it protects the interests of the elderly, taking into account the accelerated aging of the population. It is estimated that between 2025 and 2030 this age group will exceed three million and will represent 30% of the Cuban people.
   
The care of children and young people and people with disabilities also occupies an essential place in the Family Code, which is the result of a broad and transparent discussion process throughout the country.
  
Legislators, experts, academics and representatives of mass organizations were shaping the text, which had 25 versions and in which the opinion of the population was also taken into account.
  
More than 78 thousand meetings were held throughout the country, in which each citizen could freely express his or her opinion, doubts and suggestions on the document.
  
Cubans living abroad also had the opportunity to express their opinions. For this purpose, a space was set up on the site Nation and Emigration of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Cuba.
   
With everyone's contribution, the new Family Code, which replaced the 1975 Code, was drafted in accordance with the current times and is a modern regulation that does not impose family models and protects the rights of all.