As the countdown until the entry into force of the new Cuban Penal Code has begun, after its publication in the Official Gazette of the Republic on September 1, several questions will be inevitable for members of civil society: Are they going to imprison me?

How far is the regime prepared to go to apply a law that obviously breaches fundamental freedoms? Should we prepare for mass incarcerations like those that took place during the Black Spring?

It is important to note that the adoption of this Act nullified Law No. 93, of December 20, 2001 on “Acts Against Terrorism,” but not Law 88 on the “Protection of Cuba’s National Independence and Economy,” aka the Gag Law. The Penal Code and Law 88 will coexist and remain a threat to Cubans who openly disagree with the government.

When the preliminary draft of the Code was published, DIARIO DE CUBA explained, through an analysis of its articles, how the law represents a clear setback for citizens in terms of the exercise of human rights, and further shields those in power.