A U.S. journalist finds the island is still waiting for change.

The OAS' recent decision to allow Cuba to reenter its ranks was largely a symbolic vote, which detracted attention from the deeper hemispheric problems of poverty, inequality, and security.

At an AS/COA launch for The Portable Island: Cubans at Home in the World, the book's editors joined Cuban experts in discussing the Cuban diaspora and the implications of the U.S. embargo. This book will be reviewed in the Summer 2009 Americas Quarterly.

An OAS task force will examine proposals, including one from Washington, which could pave the way for Havana to rejoin the OAS. But the Obama administration has indicated that Cuba must adhere to democratic principles before gaining readmission.

OAS Secretary-General José Miguel Insulza joined AS/COA Online for an interview about the recent Summit of the Americas, from negotiating mandates to carrying them out at June's General Assembly in Honduras. He also offered his view on the process for Cuba to rejoin the OAS.

Days ahead of the Summit of the Americas, the White House eased Cuba restrictions, making it easier for Cuban Americans to travel to the island and send remittances to family members there. The changes also allow for more humanitarian aid and bids by U.S. telecommunication firms.

After a year in office, Cuban President Raúl Castro shuffled top ministerial posts, raising questions about what the shakeup signals. The move comes as Washington ponders changes to its own Cuba policy.