"Does a civil society actually exist in Cuba today and if so what are its nature and role? In seeking answers to this hotly contested and highly politicized question, Alexander Gray and Antoni Kapcia have assembled an impressive and diverse group of contributors." "Francisco Dominguez examines the rise of the private sector in Cuba, while Miren Uriarte looks at the potential and limits of local development in Havana. Christine Ayorinde discusses the place of religious Cubans in a secular state; Nino Pagliccia describes the people-to-people connections that exist in solidarity organizations and friendship groups. Michelle Marin Dogan and Antoni Kapcia each grapple with the definition of civil society in Cuba; Alexander Gray reveals the genesis and role of NGOs in the country. Avoiding polemics and preconceptions, this volume brings a fresh and welcome perspective to one of the most vexing issues in Cuban society today."--Jacket.