Committees for the Defense of the Revolution

Cuban social organization

Also known as: CDR

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June 24, 2026

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The Committees for the Defense of the Revolution (CDR) are a social organization in Cuba. Established in the early 1960s, they emerged from the consolidation of revolutionary groups following the overthrow of Fulgencio Batista by Fidel Castro's 26th of July Movement in 1959. The CDRs are organized in every city, factory, and workplace, and are known for maintaining vigilance against perceived ideological enemies and discouraging dissent. They play a role in the political process by selecting delegates for municipal elections, who then choose members for the National Assembly. While the government has introduced direct elections for the National Assembly, the CDRs remain a significant part of Cuba's social and political landscape.12

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Havana
Government
…and neighbourhood groups called the Committees for the Defense of the Revolution (CDRs), has led to a declining role for the city government, which, nevertheless, still provides such essential services as garbage collection and fire protection. The CDRs, which exist in virtually every street and apartment block, have two main…
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…and neighbourhood groups called the Committees for the Defense of the Revolution (CDRs), has led to a declining role for the city government, which, nevertheless, still provides such essential services as garbage collection and fire protection. The CDRs, which exist in virtually every street and apartment block, have two main…
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Cuba
Political process
…mass organizations, notably the ubiquitous Committees for the Defense of the Revolution, which maintain vigilance against ideological “enemies” and intimidate dissenters and are organized in every city, factory, and workplace and in many rural counties. Other organizations include the Federation of Cuban Women and the National Association of Small Farmers,…
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…mass organizations, notably the ubiquitous Committees for the Defense of the Revolution, which maintain vigilance against ideological “enemies” and intimidate dissenters and are organized in every city, factory, and workplace and in many rural counties. Other organizations include the Federation of Cuban Women and the National Association of Small Farmers,…
Read More